PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
How does AGC work with
Alaska to support a long-term
DAN HALL
President
fiscal plan?
A2swestandandstareintothe Wewillallneedtohaveskininthe It is not all gloom and doom.
sky, our state economy is fall-
game to achieve a fair and balanced
Alaska is a great state, full of opportu-
ing in a deep dive with very
outcome.
nity and hard-working people. There
little time to pull up and save our-
One thing is for sure: We all must
are also some large projects that can
selves from a 1980-type recession. At
come to the table and make sacrifices
help sustain our economy until oil and
AGC of Alaska we are well aware of
and find solutions. In today's world
gas prices and investment improve.
the need to pull up, as the industries
this is hard to do because most elected
Several large mining projects such as
we represent were the first big area
officials have a difficult time making
Donlin that are close to making a go/
cut from state funding two years ago.
these tough fiscal plan decisions that
no-go decision, new oil opportunities
Construction is a leading economic
could affect their re-election.
at Smith Bay and mega projects that
indicator -- as the state economy
I would like to offer a comparison
leverage our federal dollars can help
goes, so too goes construction. When
to the construction industry on this
bridge the gap.
construction is in a recession, so is our
topic. If our companies can't make
The road to King Cove may be
state. It's time to "Put Alaska First"
tough decisions and we worry about
reachable in the near future. We
and make changes that reverse our
our popularity, we go broke. The
must look at each of these construc-
decline and put us back onto the road
worst decision we can make is to not
tion opportunities and find a way to
to prosperity. It will not be easy, but
make a decision at all.
make these projects commercially
it's not easy to successfully manage a
As a lifelong Alaskan who has
viable. This includes tax incentives,
construction business either.
enjoyed a vibrant economy driven by
tax stability, environmental and
We all have ideas and approaches
the petroleum industry, I can under-
regulatory reform and investing our
on how to get this done, but at the
stand the decisions of the past, but
savings in a way to get the projects
end of the day we need to look in the
today we are at a tipping point for
constructed. A more stable economic
mirror and ask, "What do Alaskans
failure and we must all come to the
climate will lead Alaska to renewed
really need to do?" Alaska does not
table and support Alaska by devel-
prosperity.
have a wealth problem; we have a cash
oping a viable long-term fiscal plan.
We all should put our thinking
flow problem. With over $50 billion in
Failure to act is a recipe for disaster.
caps and our work gloves on and offer
our Permanent Fund, we can develop
Some in the Legislature think we
thoughts and support to our leaders in
a long-term fiscal solution that will
can solve our fiscal problems simply
Juneau. We all need to grab the yoke
provide a long-term foundation for
by collecting more taxes from our
and start to pull because not making
the next 50 years.
resource industries. This is extremely
any of these hard decisions will be cata-
Any long-term fiscal solution for
dangerous -- a serious threat to the
strophic for Alaska. If we don't make
Alaska requires a mix of the following:
goose that lays the golden egg -- and
the tough decisions, we will go broke.
�
Cuts to state government
would have catastrophic results. What
Alaska can have a successful future
�
Use of the Permanent Fund to
we need is tax stability to encourage
if we develop a plan, sacrifice now
support state government
investment by our resource industries
and make the tough decisions. We all
�
Increased revenues in the form
in production, exploration, develop-
want a thriving, stable, sustainable
of taxes without overtaxing our
ment and construction. No prudent
Alaska. We want a great place to live
resource industries
investor will risk investment in our
and enjoy. Alaska will continue to be a
�
Reduction in payouts of Perma-
state until we solve our fiscal issues
great land if we work together to reset
nent Fund Dividends
and provide fiscal and tax stability.
the state's fiscal plan.
10
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE
First 100 days are opportunity
JOHN MACKINNON
Executive Director
to do what's right for Alaska
T0hefirst"100Days"ofthefirst were overjoyed with the election Butthereisanother"100Days"
term of a U.S. president are used
that elevated Sen. Ted Stevens to
that should be on all Alaskans'
to measure the successes and
chair the powerful Appropriations
minds. That is the roughly 100 days
accomplishments during the time that
Committee. It was said the planets
of the next state legislative session.
his power and influence are greatest.
were aligned and it would be the
The November election shuffled
That's when you live up to your prom-
beginning of good times again in
the deck in Washington. It also
ises. There have been a lot of promises
Alaska.
shuffled the deck in Juneau. The
made during the 2016 campaign, and
With control of both branches
state Senate managed to maintain
depending on what you read, the list
of government, Congress went on
its Republican-controlled bipartisan
that Donald Trump has pledged to do
an unprecedented spending spree.
coalition, while the House switched
in his first 100 days is extensive.
Congressional earmarks, epitomized
altogether to a Democrat-controlled
During the long campaign,Trump
by the Bridge to Nowhere, became
bipartisan coalition. This is a recipe
consistently brought up what is
an object of national ridicule and a
for a stalemate.
wrong with the federal government.
symbol of the fiscal irresponsibility
The public wants the Legislature
Washington is broken. We have
of Congress toward the money
to fix our fiscal problem. The "fix"
an often-dysfunctional Congress;
entrusted to it by the taxpayers.
is a blend of new revenue (taxes),
legislation is controlled by special
The arrogance of the spending
reduced spending (budget cuts) and
interests and not by what is best
spree soon cost Republicans the
using Permanent Fund earnings to
for America. That's why he wants to
majority in the House and the
fill the gap.
"drain the swamp."
Senate and contributed to losing the
But before the Permanent Fund
He talked about opening more
White House in 2008. That election
earnings are tapped, many on the
land to mining and drilling, improving
gave control of both branches to
right want reduced spending and
trade deals to keep jobs in America,
Democrats. Control was short-lived
many on the left want new revenue.
making our borders more secure by
after the Affordable Care Act was
It will take some real statesmanship
cracking down on illegal immigra-
forced on the American public and
on both sides to come to agreement.
tion, replacing Obamacare, appointing
led to the famous quote,"We have to
We saw some of that last year with
conservative judges, cutting taxes
pass the bill so that you can find out
several major pieces of legislation
and making the tax code simpler and
what is in it."
reducing regulations.
In 2010, the House changed, and
that passed with strong bipartisan
What is said in the heat of
soon after so did the Senate.
support and bipartisan opposition.
campaign rhetoric gets to the reality
The pendulum swings back and
Last year the Senate voted to tap the
of what is possible. The art of any
forth. When you are given too much
Permanent Fund earnings but the
deal, especially in politics, involves
power and you don't treat that
House couldn't get the votes.
some compromise. I'm optimistic
responsibility with a certain amount
In politics, today it isn't about
that we will see a president who will
of discretion and respect, the voters
what the piece of legislation is and
deal with things sensibly and real-
take some of it away. That's one of
what it means to our country or
istically in a way that is based on
the things that make America great;
our state and our citizens. It is how
practical, businesslike, no-nonsense
the people can take the privilege of
that legislation can be used for the
solutions rather than the usual "I'm
power away.
maximum political advantage. We
from the government, and I'm here
President Obama had a Demo-
see it in Washington, D.C. We see it
to help."
cratic majority in both houses for his
in Alaska's Legislature too.
In the 2002 election, a Repub-
first two years, and Trump will have
A legislator's oath of office is not
lican majority took over the U.S.
the advantage of Republican majori-
to a party or group of constituents
Senate, adding to its control of the
ties in both houses of Congress.
but to the constitution, the laws and
U.S. House of Representatives and
Many Alaskans believe the planets
the people of Alaska. Do what's right
the White House. Many Alaskans
are once again aligned.
for Alaska.
12
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

COMMISSIONER'S MESSAGE
Investing in infrastructure
MARC LUIKEN
Alaska Department of Transportation
& Public Facilities Commissioner
Department dedicated to supporting stable
economy, keeping communities safe, moving goods
A1laskaisalandofvastresourc- resourcesavailableforthenextfour safetyfortwomodesoftransporta-
es and limitless opportunity.
years, we can plan with greater confi-
tion that are critical to the economy
Even in our current fiscal situ-
dence and are better able to commit
of Kodiak Island.
ation, this remains undeniably true.
to a slate of projects across the state.
ADOT&PF also completed the
The Alaska Department of Transpor-
This past year ADOT&PF con-
Alaska State Library and Archives
tation & Public Facilities considers it
tracted $590 million in construction
Museum in Juneau. This beautiful
a great privilege to work alongside
activities throughout Alaska and has
$130 million structure will protect
fellow Alaskans, partners in the con-
received authority to proceed on
Alaska's important historical arti-
sulting and contracting community,
62 new construction projects state-
facts and archives while providing a
toward building and sustaining trans-
wide. This investment in Alaska's
fascinating museum for visitors and
portation infrastructure that will sup-
economy employed hundreds of
Alaska residents alike.
port and promote a stable economy.
Alaskans in the construction and
Several projects are progressing to
ADOT&PF recognizes that it impacts
consulting industry.
the construction phase in the coming
nearly every Alaskan, every day. Our
As a result of this investment
years as a result of the certainty
desire is to make that impact as posi-
several projects are already making
provided by the FAST Act. Projects of
tive as we possibly can through the
a difference for Alaska's economy.
note that will likely go to construction
projects and service we deliver.
Of note are the three railway grade
in the next two to three years include
The recent passage of the Fixing
separation projects on the Parks
Windy Corner on the Seward Highway,
America's Surface Transportation
Highway. These projects at Montana
Seward Highway MP 65-90 (Gird-
(FAST) Act into law created a five-
Creek, Sunshine and Broad Pass
wood to Turnagain), Sterling Highway
year, $305 billion authorization of
significantly reduce travel time
MP 60-79, Seward Highway widening
federal funding for U.S. transporta-
between Anchorage and Fairbanks
Dowling to Dimond, Haines Highway
tion projects. This provides needed
for the movement of freight and
MP 2.5-12.5 and University Avenue in
financial stability and increases
increase safety for hazardous mate-
Fairbanks.
some federal funding apportionment
rial shipping and school buses using
While federal capital funding now
to states.
this highway. Greenhouse gases are
has greater certainty, state capital
The FAST Act is a good deal for
also reduced along this corridor as
funding is much less assured without
state DOTs, especially in Alaska
large diesel trucks spend less time
a workable fiscal plan. Many of the
where we receive about $5 in federal
traveling.
state-funded projects slated to move
funds for every dollar we contribute
The Road to Tanana was com-
to construction in the next few years
to the Federal Highway Trust Fund
pleted and opened this past summer.
are currently on hold and waiting for
through our federal motor fuel
Built for about $300,000 per mile,
the passage of a sustainable fiscal
tax. In 2016, the federal highway
this road will help the economy not
budget.
fund appropriation for Alaska was
only of the village of Tanana but
With continued fiscal uncer-
$503 million, a 5.6 percent increase
likely most of the communities along
tainty ADOT&PF's operating budget
from 2015. The FAST Act is sched-
the Yukon River by reducing the cost
has also been significantly affected.
uled for a 2 percent annual increase
of goods and services delivered up-
During the past two years the
from FY 2017 to 2020.
stream and downstream.
department has faced a $60 million
The FAST Act removes much of
On Kodiak, the department com-
general fund reduction to its oper-
the fiscal uncertainty state DOTs
pleted the Kodiak Airport Runway
ating budget. This is a 22 percent
have experienced for the past decade
Safety Area and the reconstruction
decrease since 2015, which signifi-
when dealing with federal funding.
of Pier 1 at the Kodiak port facility.
cantly limits the services the depart-
By knowing the level of federal
Both projects improve access and
ment provides.
14
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

foten
f4acilitieS
ePartm ublic3P&4n
rtatio
h4eSS3,a4laSKa3D 4SPo
b4etSy 3t4ran
The Road to Tanana, which opened last
summer, will help the economy of Tanana
by reducing the delivery costs of goods and
services.
The department has done every-
thing practical to keep budget reduc-
tions from affecting direct services.
Over 96 percent of the department's
$218 million general fund budget
goes to operating and maintaining
roads, airports and ferries. The other
4 percent of funds support services
such as accounting, auditing, IT
and staff necessary to meet federal
funding requirements.
As commissioner of A laska's
transportation, one question I am
frequently asked is, why not use some
of the federal funds to plow roads or
run ferries? Believe me, I wish we
could, but maintenance and opera-
tions are not an allowable expense
for federal funding. Every state in
the nation agrees to the same provi-
sions when accepting federal dollars.
Federal funds may only be used to
plan, design and construct state
transportation infrastructure. Since
Alaska must self-fund transporta-
tion maintenance and operations,
ADOT&PF will continue to pursue
as many efficiencies and new tech-
nologies as possible to offset budget
reductions.
During these fiscally challenging
times, ADOT&PF will strive to
boost Alaska's economy through the
numerous federal- and state-funded
projects that provide improved mo-
bility, access and safety. The depart-
ment is dedicated to helping move
Alaska's economy forward, keeping
our communities safe and healthy,
and to opening opportunities to
access Alaska's vast resources. The
department's mission to Keep Alaska
Moving through service and infra-
structure will endure.
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
15

HAMILTON CONSTRUCTION ALASKA
By C5arly 2H5orton 2S5tuart
Clearing the way in remote
LE 3Alaska's harsh conditions
OFI 1C2rucialtoeconomicgrowth,infrastructuredrives economic growth, increased GDP, employment,
trade by moving people, goods and services.
household income and exports -- one project at a time.
Roads, bridges, railroads -- the U.S. economy
Hamilton began in 1939 in Oregon as a small
relies on a world-class transportation system.
company installing concrete road and irrigation
Every four years, the American Society of Civil
systems. It grew from there, expanding throughout
Engineers releases a report card depicting the
the Pacific Northwest and to Alaska in 1977.
condition and performance of U.S. infrastructure,
"Our first projects in Alaska were 60-foot
assigning letter grades based on the physical condi-
Hamilton-patented prefabricated bridges (EZ
tion and investments needed for improvement. In
Bridges) in Ketchikan for the U.S. Forest Service,"
BERPR 22013,thenation'scumulativeGPAwasaD-plus. saidHamiltonprojectmanagerJohnSzymik."We
"Since 1998, the grades have been near failing,
run into our EZ Bridges all over the state. We've
averaging only D's due to delayed maintenance
actually bid a few projects that involved the replace-
and underinvestment across most categories," the
ment or retrofit of a Hamilton-supplied EZ Bridge."
EM 2reportstated.
Hamilton heads up a variety of large heavy-civil
ASCE estimates that an investment of $3.6 tril-
construction projects, "but we have made a name for
ourselves working on projects with limited and diffi-
M 2lionwouldbeneededby2020toclosetheinfrastruc-
ture gap. "We have a significant backlog of overdue
cult access -- bridges, railroad trestles, cofferdams,
maintenance across our infrastructure systems, a
highway interchanges, transit projects, specialized
pressing need for modernization and an immense
foundation work, overlays and project management
opportunity to create reliable, long-term funding
are part of Hamilton's everyday work."
sources to avoid wiping out our recent gains," the
The company employs about 250 people,
report explained.
with offices in Alaska, Colorado, Oregon and
Fortunately, companies like Hamilton Construc-
Washington.
tion Alaska are moving the U.S. forward, building
In Alaska, the company frequently collaborates
the infrastructure that will facilitate long-term
with the Alaska Department of Transportation &
Public Facilities on bridge and highway projects.
Recent projects include the Parks Highway MP 237
Riley Creek Bridge replacement. The ADOT&PF
deemed the Riley Creek Bridge, located near the
entrance to Denali National Park, "structurally defi-
cient and functionally obsolete." Hamilton replaced
the previous structure with a two-span deck bulb-
tee girder bridge and made adjacent highway
improvements as well.
The project was awarded as part of the
a9laSKa
ADOT&PF CMGC (Construction Manager/General
n
Manager) process, a procurement method that
involves the contractor providing input during the
Struction8c9o
design phase before the start of construction. The
n
CMGC delivery method gives the contractor the
ilto
h9am
opportunity to offer new innovations, value engi-
fo
neering and early risk mitigation as a result of the
urteSy
contractor's years of proven experience doing the
co
actual work.
to
P9ho
"Collaboration during the preconstruction
Work crews set girders on the Glenn Highway Chickaloon Bridge.
phase helped identify risks and which permits were
16
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

on the project's critical path -- a major
contributing factor to the project
completing a full season ahead of
P3ho
schedule," Hamilton project manager
toco
Jesse Peterson said.
urte
In addition to replacing the new
Syof
230-foot bridge over Riley Creek, the
h3am
Hamilton team realigned the Parks
ilton
Highway to upgrade a substandard
c3on
curve and minimize traffic impacts
Struc
during construction. The bridge was
tion
widened to accommodate left-turn
a3laS
access to the Park Road, and the shoul-
Ka
ders were increased for pedestrian
The Riley Creek Bridge replacement project received AGC's 2015 Excellence in Construction
and bicycle traffic. Minor realignment
Award for Transportation, Marine, Heavy, Earthmoving Between $5 million and $15 million.
of the adjacent pedestrian and bicycle
path also improved travel for pedes-
and completed all other major work
"We really have to be self-sufficient
trians and cyclists.
items such as paving, striping, signs,
wherever we go and be prepared for
The contract was awarded in
guard rails, topsoil and seeding."
all different types of scenarios."
September 2014. In 2015, the project
Located about 20 miles east of
AGC of Alaska membership has
received AGC of Alaska's Excellence
Hamilton's office in Sutton, the
played a role in Hamilton's success
in Construction Award for Transpor-
Chickaloon Bridge is a part of a
as well. "It's provided us an oppor-
tation, Marine, Heavy, Earthmoving
strategy by the Federal Highway
tunity to network with other contrac-
Between $5 million and $15 million.
Administration to redesign portions
tors, and AGC provides an avenue to
"This was a massive success not only
of the Glenn Highway. It will be used
address `global' issues that affect all
for the owner but for the neighboring
by commuters, recreationalists and
contractors such as permitting issues,
community and traveling public,"
commercial truck drivers.
specification changes and legisla-
Szymik said.
As any Alaska contractor can
tion," Peterson said.
Lauren Little, a Fairbanks-based
attest, working in the state isn't
As for Hamilton's future in
project manager with the ADOT&PF,
always easy. Szymik and Peterson
Alaska, Szymik says it looks bright.
described Hamilton as a "great team
cite communication in remote areas,
"As Alaska grows and infrastructure
partner" on the Riley Creek Bridge
weather, lack of reliable services,
ages -- many bridges are nearing
project. "We worked with (Hamilton
limited
transportation
networks,
the end of their design life -- larger,
A laska project managers) John
distances between towns and barge
more complex projects will be adver-
Szymik and Jesse Peterson on the
schedules as common challenges.
tised. We have been able to build
design details and design optimiza-
But a commitment to communication
great relationships with owners, other
tion, then their guys went out and
and autonomy has helped Hamilton
prime contractors and subcontractors
built it. We ended up with a really
maintain a track record of success in
in Alaska, and we look forward to
nice, high-quality product."
the 49th state.
growing those relationships."
Another notable project was the
"Our crews focus on the tasks of
For information, visit www.hamil.
Glenn Highway Chickaloon Bridge
the day and understand expectations;
com.
replacement. Hamilton was the prime
they really take responsibility for their
contractor on this three-span, precast
own safety and understand that help
Carly Horton Stuart is a freelance
bulb-tee girder-bridge. The 350-foot-
isn't around the corner," Szymik said.
writer who lives in Anchorage.
long structure with a cast-in-place
concrete deck required building a
seven-span work bridge and driller
slips.
"The schedule was extremely
aggressive," Szymik said. "Construc-
tion on the project started in mid-July
2015. From the start, it was a race with
the weather to complete the shafts,
pier columns and caps before the first
winter shutdown. Our team set beams
and poured the intermediate and end
diaphragms in just a month of project
time. This past construction season
we placed the concrete bridge deck
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
17

ART OF THE NORTH
Anchorage Museum adds new gallery
Project
Update
to display expansive collection
By r3aCHael 1K3vapil
T1hebestdesignsareacarefulmix Over30,000artworksplus500,000 Pullingthisoffhastakenteam-
of form and function, and bring-
historical maps and photographs are
work. Decker said the museum
ing them to life is an art of its
currently held in the public trust, in
chose a local architect, contractor
own. The Anchorage Museum expan-
careful storage. A number of pieces
and consultants, in keeping with the
sion project demonstrates the chal-
are curated annually for exhibi-
Alaska theme of the new galleries.
lenge of creating an engaging space to
tions in Anchorage and elsewhere;
The design process was started
display a thoughtful northern-themed
however, some haven't been on
in 2015 with McCool Carlson Green
exhibition without disrupting the mu-
display since they were taken into
architects (MCG) of Anchorage. John
seum's daily operations.
the museum's collection. The addi-
Weir, president/CEO and principal
"The purpose of a museum is to
tional 25,000-square-foot of gallery
architect, said the decision to build
preserve and exhibit objects of great
space will allow the museum to create
the expansion 5 feet above the oldest
public significance and interest," said
exhibits from its own rich collection.
areas to the existing building was the
museum director/CEO Julie Decker.
"The primary goal of the design
only solution, given the limited space
"There is always space limitation when
is to maximize exhibition space and
surrounding the downtown building.
you have high public demand for
minimize circulation space," Decker
The museum expansion, he said,
exhibitions in art, history, culture and
said. "We want to create as much
used a cantilever and tension system
science. This new wing will allow us to
gallery space as possible and reduce
that incorporated four 28,000-pound
start exhibiting artworks we've held in
lobbies, hallways and areas with
steel beams as the main horizontal
storage for quite some time now."
invisible functions."
support for the addition to hang the
The Anchorage Museum's new 25,000-square-foot gallery
space is built 5 feet above the oldest part of the building.
The space will feature a northern-themed exhibit drawn
from the museum's massive art collection.
P9hoto courteSy of 8D9aviS 8c9onStructorS 8& e9nGineerS 8i9nc8.
18
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

main gallery from the upper structure
foot opening in 14-inch concrete and
removal of the existing museum roof
utilizing support structure with eight
removing 58,000 pounds of material.
early in the project; however, a produc-
columns that penetrate the existing
Decker said discussions about the
tive summer and extended fall have
building.
new gallery started four years ago
kept the expansion on time and on
Likewise, the interior gallery
when a patron expressed interest in
budget. The plan is for contractors to
uses materials that reflect a northern
the museum's stored collections.
hand over the building in June and the
environment, such as yellow cedar
The entire project will cost $24 mil-
museum to use the summer to curate
siding locally sourced in Alaska that
lion. All of the cost is being funded
and install the "Art of the North"
is both functional and appealing. The
through private contributions, with a
exhibit. An official opening reception
Anchorage Museum, architectural
$12 million gift from the Rasmuson
is scheduled for September.
firm MCG and general contractor
family and a $12 million gift from the
Davis Constructors & Engineers dedi-
Rasmuson Foundation.
Rachael Kvapil is a freelance writer
cated a year and a half to the struc-
A long rainy spell affected the
and photographer who lives in Fairbanks.
ture's design. Weir said the process
was one of the most collaborative he's
ever experienced.
"You need a strong team and
strong
processes
to
accomplish
successful outcomes," he said. "We
had that from the start and plan on
maintaining that mind-set through
the project duration."
Weir said that MCG makes site
visits every week and answers ques-
tions daily. All this has made it
easier for crews to work around the
museum's busy summer hours. Davis
Constructors project manager Luke
Blomfield said it takes careful timing
to complete major structural tasks in
a place that's occupied seven days a
week from morning to night. He said
crews did their best to be "a fly on
the wall" so patrons could enjoy their
museum experience uninterrupted.
This meant concealing interior
work behind temporary finished
walls that displayed artwork in public
spaces, and limiting exterior work to
times with fewer visitors. Blomfield
said that crews managed to minimize
closures of the Discovery Center to
the general public to only three hours
a day during early installation of
structural materials.
"Safety is the ultimate driver,"
Blomfield said. "We endeavor to
maintain museum operations with
minimal impacts to the general public
and the museum staff."
Construction of the new gallery
spaces are in full swing, with crews
currently wrapping up the exterior
envelope. Most of the winter will
be spent finishing the interior and
starting upgrades to an existing
gallery installed in the mid-1980s.
This project includes adding a new
interior entry by cutting a 12-by-24-
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
19

AS HEALTH CARE COSTS RISE,
AGC OFFERS ALTERNATE
PLANS, PRICING OPTIONS
By l7auren 2S7HarroCK6, AGC of Alaska Membership Director
H1ealthinsurance--can'tlivewithit,can'tlivewithoutit.Thisyearmaybring
many changes to the way insurance coverage is delivered, but current predic-
tions lean toward the idea that the status quo will be maintained. Employers
and individuals alike could be hard hit in 2017 and experience uncertainty in the
future, regardless of what plan they currently are part of. Rate hikes are nothing un-
usual, and this year continues the trend of percentage increases in the double digits.
Across the nation, the average
have just a single insurer offering
40 percent. On a positive note: AGC
increase in cost of coverage for those
health plans in their market. Because
offers coverage to members through a
covered by Affordable Care Act (ACA)
of this, more than 1 million existing
custom AGC Health Benefit Trust that
plans is 25 percent. Understanding
customers nationwide (and possibly
offers plans from UnitedHealthcare.
the lay of the land and knowing what
as many as 2 million) will be forced to
We'll explore this more later in the
options are available for individuals
select a new coverage provider for the
article.
and for employers who want to offer
upcoming year.
Although 82 percent of Alaskans
coverage to their employees is essen-
In addition to having fewer
are eligible for subsidies that reduce
tial to making an informed decision
carriers and plan options, individuals,
monthly payments, the bottom-line
about health care plans. Here we'll
families and employers alike must
numbers still demonstrate how large a
take a look at national and local trends,
disparity there is between the average
what the AGC Health Benefit Trust
of what Alaskans pay for insurance
has to offer, options for employers and
compared with the rest of the nation.
There are many
what the future may hold.
The national average for a 27-year-
A number of factors contribute to
options open to
old with benchmark ACA coverage
this year's jump in coverage prices,
is $302 per month. In Alaska, that
including lack of participation in
employers looking
average is $750. For a family of four
plans by the typically healthy 18- to
the national average for coverage
to maintain benefits
34-year-old age bracket, low revenues
is $1,090. In Alaska, that average is
driving insurance companies out of
while easing the
$2,750. When considering that the
some states' markets and thereby
U.S. has the most expensive health
financial burden
decreasing competition and, of course,
care of all countries, and Alaska has
the ever-increasing cost of doctors'
the highest health care premiums in
imposed by higher
visits and procedures, to name a few.
the U.S., you could say that we have
Due to the combined and related
insurance rates.
the most expensive health care in the
effects of lack of participation and
world.
stagnating revenue, carriers have
Despite these deterring factors,
pulled out of insurance markets
adjust their budgets to accommo-
employers remain committed to
in many states. Alaska is a prime
date the increase in rates. Though
offering health benefits to employees,
example of this, with Moda Health
some states such as California will
recognizing it as an essential part
exiting the state, leaving uninsured
only see an average rate increase of
of attracting and retaining talent
Alaskans with Premera as their only
13.2 percent, customers in Alaska
and maintaining employee satisfac-
carrier option and cutting the total
who are currently with Premera can
tion. There are many options open
number of plans available from 15 to
see increases anywhere between
to employers looking to maintain
five. This reflects a larger nationwide
7 percent and 40 percent. Those who
benefits while easing the financial
trend, with the U.S. Department of
were formerly with Moda Health and
burden imposed by higher insurance
Health and Human Services reporting
are now making the switch to Premera
rates. Cost-wise strategies on the rise
that nearly one in five people will
can expect increases of 25 percent to
include telemedicine services, medical
20
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

"vacations,"consumer-directedhealth
plans, narrow network health care
plans and self-insuring. Each of these
options presents different pros and
cons and is not as comprehensive as
traditional options.
AGC of Alaska has, for many
years, offered our members access
to alternate insurance plans through
the AGC Health Benefit Trust, which
is run along with the AGC of Wash-
ington and Inland NW AGC chapters
to offer the best options and pricing.
These plans are purely a member
benefit and a service we are proud to
provide to our membership.
The Trust offers health and life
insurance through UnitedHealth-
care, and vision and dental coverage
through The Standard. The number
of plan options for health coverage
alone totals 15, which is three times
the current level of five plans under
Premera. Dental, vision and life also
have multiple options, and these plans
can be added or combined in what-
ever ways best work for your needs.
Those who are part of this plan
also have the option to participate in
the Dollar Bank program -- some-
thing that union health plans have
long offered but has been unavail-
able in other plans. This provides a
unique solution to help employers
and employees deal with the seasonal
nature of the construction busi-
ness by allowing employees to build
up a "Dollar Bank" during the busy
months and then use those banked
dollars during the lean months. This
means employees won't have to worry
about losing their health benefits
when the season is over and they
need them most.
Detailed information about the
plans is available online at www.
www.agcak.orgAGCAK.org, or you can email info@
mailto:info@agchealthplansnw.comagchealthplansnw.com for more infor-
mation or a free quote.
Though the outlook for health
insurance in 2017 isn't the rosiest, there
are still many avenues for success open
to employers. As many AGC of Alaska
members have found, those options
available through AGC Health Benefits
Trust might just be the best ones for
you and your employees.
Lauren Sharrock can be reached at
mailto:lauren@agcak.orglauren@agcak.org or 907-561-5354.
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
21

B1eacon
Preventing alcohol abuse in workplace
requires clear policy, education, testing
By B6rennen 3p6ortalSKi3, C-Sapa
Beacon Occupational Health and Safety Services Inc.
T3hereisnoquestionthatweareinthemidstofchal- relatedcausesintheUnitedStates.423Thenumbersarestag-
lenging times for employers when it comes to main-
gering and truly scary to those looking to maintain a safe
taining a drug-free workplace. With the legalization
workplace. Not only does alcohol in the workplace lead to
of recreational marijuana, the opioid and heroin epidemic,
accident and injury; it can lead to absenteeism, tardiness,
and with synthetic drugs on the rise, there is a lot to be
missed job assignments, rising health care costs and
considered when trying to maintain a safe, drug-free
work environment.
much more.
Drugs aside, it is also important to consider
It is clear that employers should be concerned about
another substance that has significantly affected
alcohol in the workplace; understanding the overall
safety in the workplace, a substance that causes
effects of alcohol is the first step to implementing
absenteeism, accidents, injuries and death. This
and maintaining an alcohol-free workplace. The key
substance is legal throughout our state and the
components of keeping alcohol out of the work-
country, yet how do we prevent workplace acci-
place include a clearly written policy that outlines
dents and injuries from occurring from its effects?
the company stance on alcohol use in the work-
This article will discuss alcohol and the work-
place, education on the effects of alcohol use in the
force and explore the ways you can maintain an
workplace, identifying the signs and symptoms
alcohol-free workplace.
Alcohol has been consumed around the
of alcohol in the workplace for employees and
world for centuries. Almost all of us have
supervisors, consistently testing employees for
encountered a situation where alcohol has
alcohol as required by DOT and/or company
been involved, whether a small social gath-
policy, and having an Employee Assistance
ering or a night out on the town. As a legal
Program for all employees to use.
consumable for those 21 years or older, it is
Whether you are an employer that has
one of the easiest substances to access. And
a DOT-mandated anti-alcohol plan or a
although it is legal, many employers have
company with a non-DOT alcohol testing
anti-alcohol policies to prevent alcohol use
policy, it is important to be informed and to
in the workplace. This is even a requirement
educate employees on this issue. Alcohol use in
for companies with employees who work
in positions covered by the Department of
the workplace can have serious consequences,
Transportation.
up to and including accidents that cause
While alcohol is prohibited in many
serious injury and death. Be sure to provide
workplaces, there still seems to be a signifi-
the company policy to employees upfront
cant number of alcohol-related workplace
(preferably at the time of onboarding) so that
accidents and injuries. It may seem difficult
expectations are set from Day One. Alcohol in
for employers to maintain an alcohol-free
the workplace can undoubtedly be a serious
workplace, but with a few key policies and
problem, but with a clear policy, education,
procedures, any company can ensure the
testing and an EAP, any company can reduce
safety of its employees is not compromised
by alcohol use.
its risks.
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse
and Alcoholism estimates that nearly 14 million Americans
http://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/worklife/reference-materials/alcoholism-in-the-workplace-a-handbook-for-supervisors1https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/worklife/reference-materials/alcoholism-in-the-
http://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/worklife/reference-materials/alcoholism-in-the-workplace-a-handbook-for-supervisorsworkplace-a-handbook-for-supervisors
abuse alcohol or are alcoholics.41 3Furthermore, it is esti-
http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/overview-alcohol-consumption/alcohol-facts-and-statistics2
mated that annually nearly 88,000 people die from alcohol-
http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/overview-alcohol-consumption/alcohol-facts-and-statisticshttps://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/overview-alcohol-consumption/alcohol-facts-and-
http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/overview-alcohol-consumption/alcohol-facts-and-statisticsstatistics
24
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

FINANCIAL SERVICES 4& CONTRACTORS
Financing equipment �
DARIN FLOYD
Wel s Fargo � Equipment
To buy or lease?
Finance Territory Manager
I0fyou'reconsideringanequipment downpaymentaspartofaloanstruc- devaluation and changing markets
acquisition for your business, it
ture. Recently, however, some types
are borne by the lessor. Depending on
makes sense to compare the re-
of long-lived assets may be financed
the type of lease structure, there may
spective benefits of buying or leasing
at 100 percent of the purchase price.
be no obligation to purchase the asset
to determine which option is right
Leases are structured to provide peri-
at the end of the term of a lease.
for your company. Before you buy or
odic payments based on an agreed-
lease, give careful consideration to
3) Expense deductions
upon or estimated equipment value at
choosing equipment that will fit your
the beginning and end of a lease term.
With a loan and certain lease
project pipeline, foster productivity
structures, the borrower is considered
and position your business for long-
the owner of the equipment for tax
term growth.
purposes and often may claim depre-
Evaluate the equipment your
ciation expense and interest expense
organization currently uses. Take
that could reduce a company's taxable
time to consider where updating,
income. With an operating or true
Give careful
supplementing or replacing your
lease, the lessee typically claims no
fleet of equipment could benefit your
asset or liability on its balance sheet
consideration to
business. Also, determine if there are
with the lease payments treated as
additional items of new or used equip-
choosing equipment
an expense deduction on the lessee's
ment that will help your business
income statement.
that will fit your
operate more profitably or expand its
As part of the evaluation of any
capabilities.
lease or loan structure, you should
project pipeline,
New equipment is often more
consult with an accountant and tax
efficient and may cost less in near-
advisor to be certain of the appli-
foster productivity
term repairs and maintenance. Used
cability for your company. Flexible
equipment may require a lower initial
payment terms and interim financing
and position your
investment. Whether the equipment
may also be available in lease and
is new or used, a loan or lease provides
business for long-
loan transactions.
the ability to use the equipment's
A key advantage in leasing equip-
term growth.
revenue-generating capacity over time
ment is that the lessee decides what to
to help pay for it. Rather than tying
do with the equipment at the end of
up cash in a large purchase, loans and
the lease term. End-of-lease options
leases may help you preserve liquidity
for the lessee may include a) purchase
for other business needs.
the equipment, b) renew the lease or
When it's time to acquire equip-
c) return the equipment.
2) Risk of obsolescence
ment, determine whether buying or
The option to return the equip-
If you purchase equipment you
leasing is going to serve your long-
ment can benefit a business because
bear the risk that it could decrease
term interests most effectively. Here
disposal of equipment can be uncer-
are three considerations:
in value as a result of technological
tain, costly and time consuming. It
advances or changes in the needs of
also allows a company to focus on its
1) Down payment
your business. If you lease the equip-
core business versus managing non-
Depending on the type of equip-
ment, the transaction may be struc-
core assets. Purchase options can be
ment, you may need to provide a cash
tured so the risks of obsolescence,
structured in a wide variety of ways,
26
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

including fixed dollar amounts or fair
market value.
Companies that do not have tax
liabilities (because of net operating
losses, etc.) may also benefit by
leasing, where depreciation deduc-
tions can be taken by the lessor,
which can be passed on to the lessee
in the form of lower rental payments.
Leasing may also assist with debt
covenant compliance.
Loans also offer distinct advan-
tages to companies that need capital
equipment.
For
instance,
loan
payments can be based on fixed
or floating rates, fixed principal
and interest, or fixed principal plus
interest. This allows a company to
lock in rates and terms that fit its
long-term
capital
or
financing
strategy. Some companies benefit
from owning assets that are central
to their business when the equipment
has a useful life beyond the repay-
ment terms of the loan. In such cases,
it may make more sense to own the
equipment and retain the benefit of
depreciation expenses.
Once you've determined your
equipment needs, talk with a banker
who can connect you with an equip-
ment finance specialist. Together,
they can help you determine which
of your financing options -- whether
it's a loan or one of many types of
leases -- may fit your needs. An equip-
ment finance specialist may also be able
to assist with knowledge about equip-
ment vendors or help in the review
of competitive bids. Before making a
decision about your equipment invest-
ment, be sure to consult with your
accountant and/or tax advisor.
Nothing contained in this article
should be considered tax or accounting
advice, and you should consult with
your own tax, accounting and financial
advisors.
Darin Floyd is a territory manager for
Wells Fargo Equipment Finance in Alaska.
He can be reached at 907-265-2915 or
mailto:darin.e.floyd@wellsfargo.comDarin.E.Floyd@wellsfargo.com.
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
27

m
y5.6co
raPhGto
ho5P
am
rah5G6en
ll5,K
c6arroe
ayD
by5W
to
P6ho
B
NE
R
W D
I
ENTAL CLINIC
NGING WIDER SMILES
TO DILLINGHAM
By t8raCy 2K8alytiaK
A215,500-square-foot,12-chair, LivingstonSlonedesignedthenew hasapopulationofabout2,500,and
two-story, gleaming and airy-
clinic, and Roger Hickel Contracting
the balance comes from villages in the
dental clinic recently opened
built it.
surrounding area.
in Dillingham to welcome patients
"Our dental team provides services
In 2010, BBAHC had an overall
hailing from the Bristol Bay area.
here in Dillingham and also flies to
master site plan done, which in-
Bristol Bay Area Health Corp.'s
the villages, weather permitting," said
cluded a 7,000-square-foot dental
new structure replaces an Indian
Dr. Lecia Scotford, BBAHC's Chief
clinic, boarders' quarters and housing,
Health Service clinic. The old facility
Operating Officer, who spearheaded
but the plan never came to fruition.
had seven chairs, which were divided
the dental clinic project. "Our appoint-
In 2014, Dr. Scotford presented a
between a space within the main
project business plan to the BBAHC
ments were always booked solid, as
board of directors that included a
hospital and an annex made from two
there is a great need for dental care in
15,500-square-foot building for the
converted trailers that had been there
the region."
dental clinic and support offices.
since 1973 -- the year a consortium
The new structure will enhance
"They had their overall design,
of Bristol Bay's Yup'ik, Dena'ina and
services provided at BBAHC's Kanak-
which included some things they
Sugpiaq/Alutiiq tribes formed the
anak Hospital campus as well as help
couldn't get rid of, due to federal regu-
BBAHC to provide comprehensive
serve outlying areas. The Bristol Bay
lations," Rodney Mohr, Hickel's Project
health care services.
population is about 7,500; Dillingham
Manager, said of the original plan.
28
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

They had a vapor-mitigation
system, he said, "which consisted of
a high-tech vapor barrier sealed to the
concrete foundation, some extraction
wells designed to expel any vapors
before they reach the vapor barrier,
and a monitoring well used to test
vapor levels present in the ground
soil."
A ventilation system keeps the
P
entire building, including the crawl-
hoto
space, under positive pressure, Mohr
by4W
said, preventing vapors from entering
ayDe
the occupied space of the building."
c5arr
Hickel Contracting helped deter-
oll4,K
mine the most feasible finishes to
en4G
use in the Dillingham area, as well as
raha
what costs and constraints would be
m4P5h
for labor and materials.
otoG
"That's mostly what we helped
raPh
them with," Mohr said. "Our electrical
y4.5com
and mechanical subcontractors were
Roger Hickel Contracting recently completed construction of the Bristol Bay Area Health
brought on to assist the design team
Corp.'s 12-chair, 15,500-square-foot dental clinic in Dillingham. Pictured is the clinic's closed
and the owner to explore different
operatory.
ideas on how to route the ventilation
and the different systems, what would
be `cleaner' or more sterile, which
and ERM Engineers, in addition
be more cost-effective for what their
B
NE
is desired in a health-care facility.
to Livingston Slone and Hickel
R
W D
needs are and what their future needs
I
ENTAL CLINIC
What products to use, what products
Contracting.
N
might be."
GI
would hold up better for them and
BBAHC's new clinic meets Green
NG
Dr. Scotford said the biggest chal-
WIDER SMILES
be more cost-effective to fix if they
lenges are the actual space of BBAHC's
Building Council LEED guidelines,
fail. The finishes on the exterior are
hospital -- "It is a `work in progress,'
uses LED lighting and has insula-
very durable, due to extreme weather
remodeling areas and making the
tion that exceeds design requirements
conditions."
for the area and energy-efficient
TO
best of our facilities to comply with
D
Being one of the bigger contrac-
ILLINGHAM
all regulatory agencies," she said --
windows.
tors in the area, Hickel Contracting
as well as transportation because of
The building is designed with
sponsored Dillingham's basketball
isolation and funding.
an integral foundation system to
team for a trip to another village for
Mohr agreed.
withstand a 9.2-magnitude earth-
a tournament. Hickel also turned
"For us, the biggest challenges
quake with minimal damage. Dental
over surplus trusses and construction
were probably the unknown costs of
services occupy the entire first floor,
material to the hospital to repair a roof
shipping, working out in the Bush and
with 12 operatories and high-tech
on a hospital storage facility.
trying to coordinate things to get on
"We were able to work together
equipment, while the second floor
the barge in time," Mohr said, "and
to make mutually beneficial agree-
houses support staff for the business
also qualified local labor. We tried
ments," Mohr said. "We allowed
office, finance and medical records,
and did hire some local, but a lot of
them to use our forklift for a bunch of
Dr. Scotford said.
the times the skilled labor required to
owner-supplied and owner-installed
"We broke ground in June 2015,
complete the project was not locally
items toward the end. They're allow-
and the building was completed and
available. In addition, finding housing
ing us to store some of our equipment
operational in September 2016," she
accommodations for work crews was
on site until the spring, until we get
said.
a challenge."
it out of there -- a real good working
"Our staff is very happy and excited
Mohr said durability of products
relationship."
to work in such a beautiful place,
chosen for a project is more important
Mohr said 35 to 40 employees
and it has done wonders for morale,"
in a remote place like Dillingham than
worked on the project during the
Dr. Scotford continued. "One patient
in a community on a road system.
busier times.
said to our doctor, `Gosh, I feel like I
"I think they wanted to do a whole
Mark Scotford, BBAHC project
have to dress up to come to the clinic!'
lot more tile -- floor tile and wall tile,"
manager, collaborated with project
That was nice to know."
he said. "We suggested finishes that
engineer Brad Archer and facility
are not only easier to replace or repair
manager Bryan Reed on the building
Tracy Kalytiak is a freelance writer
in case of damage, but also prove to
and Bristol Engineers, PND Engineers
who lives in Palmer.
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
29

BRADSHAW AND ASSOCIATES INC.
By J8amey 2B8radBury
Family-centered company
LE 6adapts to meet customer needs
OFI 1H2anginginthehallwaysofBradshawandAs- commercial carpentry and exterior insulation
sociates Inc. are as many photos of employ-
finishing systems (EIFS). Employees often find
ees displaying freshly caught fish as there
themselves working in remote parts of Alaska
are of the contractor's award-winning plastering,
where, if something goes wrong, help isn't just a
fireproofing and commercial carpentry projects.
simple phone call away.
As company president Ken Bradshaw settles
But he's also speaking about the work he and
behind his desk for an interview, he invites every
Bradshaw do behind the scenes -- on AGC and
available employee -- manager of operations
union committees -- to improve wages, working
Pat Brashler, bookkeeper Lori Novak and project
conditions, training and retirement for workers.
BERPR 2managerCynthiaIzon(whohappenstobeKen's Withanaverageworkforceof20to25employees,
daughter) -- to join him.
Bradshaw and Brashler have found creative ways to
That's the kind of place Bradshaw and Associates
keep their workers employed throughout winter
is: a family place. Bradshaw's son also works for him,
months when construction in Alaska slows: Their
EM 2aswellastwograndkids.AtleastthreeofBrashler's market recovery program allows employees to
kids have worked for the company.
invest a small amount to help Bradshaw secure
private work, which in turn keeps workers employed
M 2"Havingthatfamily-runtypebusiness,Ithink,
is important,"Brashler said."We all look out for each
through leaner months -- and provides a significant
other."
return on investment.
"These guys, they deserve pensions, they deserve
Improving things behind the scenes
insurance," Brashler explained. "As trustees, we try
He's speaking literally: Bradshaw is one of Alas-
to protect their retirement. And we don't want them
ka's leading subcontractors, offering fireproofing,
to work 10-hour days, seven days a week, all summer
then lay them off all winter long. It's important our
guys are taken care of."
Adapting to demand
When Bradshaw observes,"I've got a pretty good
history in construction,"it's an understatement. The
76-year-old started in the industry at age 14 and
established a plastering and commercial carpentry
business in Oklahoma in 1984. When he came to
.4c3i4n
Alaska, it was to help build the Nesbett Courthouse;
eventually, he took his plastering and fireproofing
ciateS
expertise and struck out on his own, forming Brad-
a4SSoD
shaw and Associates Inc.
an
aW
Later, he hired Brashler, who brought with him
Sh
40 years of plastering expertise, to be his manager
b4raDfo
of operations. Today, as one of the only companies
in Alaska bonded for EIFS and stucco applications,
urteSyco
Bradshaw and Associates has both the expertise and
to
a willingness to adapt to industry changes, often
P4ho
actively seeking ways to stay ahead of its competition.
Bradshaw and Associates completed a $1.6 million EIFS
"There was a real need to do swimming pools up
project for Mat-Su Regional Medical Center for project
contractor Bovis Construction. The versatility of EIFS allows
here, so we got into pool plastering," Brashler said.
Bradshaw to efficiently insulate Alaska buildings while
"Now we're the expert on pool plastering. When
offering clients a variety of finishing textures and colors.
the Glenn Massay Theater in the Valley wanted
30
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

Giving back
Bradshaw rounds out its services
P
with specializations in metal studs,
hoto
drywall and acoustical ceilings -- work
cour
that, along with EIFS, stucco and fire-
teSy
proofing, has earned the company
of0b1r
several industry awards including
aDSh
Northwest Wall and Ceiling Bureau
aWa
awards for the Glenn Massay Theater,
nD0a
Mat-Su Regional Medical Center,
SSoc
Machetanz Elementary School and
iateS
Stanton Optical.
i1nc0.
But the company is never too busy
As the only UL-certified fireproofing company in the state, Bradshaw is the go-to company for
to give back. Bradshaw joined forces
buildings like the Dena'ina Civic Center in Anchorage, where the company completed fire-
with Habitat for Humanity, furnishing
proofing for project contractor Neeser Construction.
material and labor for the exterior finish
EIFS energy saving system, with a full
Venetian plastering, we brought a
so it's really specific,"Izon added."It's
6 inches of insulating foam, on a house
trainer up from California to train all
something nobody really wants to do
for a family who'd lost their previous
our guys. Now that's another feather
because it's itchy and dirty and the
home to a fire. Bradshaw's employees
in Ken's hat -- diversifying to do other
products are temperature-sensitive."
have also completed projects for Heart-
things."
That doesn't stop her from person-
reach Center in theValley.
"It was a type of plaster you don't
ally visiting job sites, from the Dena'ina
"I think giving back to the commu-
usually see up here," said Mike Shaw,
Civic Center (a $625,000 fireproofing
nity is important," Brashler said.
president of Roger Hickel Contracting,
project), to hospitals in Fairbanks and
"Sometimes when you give, you
with whom Bradshaw worked on the
Nome, to the high school and a missile
receive 10 times more."
theater. "Bradshaw's work was very
launch pad blast tunnel in Kodiak,
good, and they were easy to work
where materials had to be flown in or
Jamey Bradbury is a freelance writer
with."
delivered via barge.
who lives in Anchorage.
That project -- blue polished Vero
decorative plaster walls that look like
suede -- demonstrates the versatility
of EIFS, which offers both the insula-
tion Alaska buildings require while
offering virtually unlimited color and
texture options. Bradshaw has been
able to apply up to 13 inches of insu-
lating foam to bring up the R value
on its clients' buildings, finishing with
exteriors that mimic brick, marble,
limestone, metal and more.
An uncommon specialty
Bradshaw is also the only UL-
certified fireproofing company in the
state. Cynthia Izon, who manages
the company's fireproofing proj-
ects, is practically a part-time detec-
tive, checking and rechecking codes,
helping architects determine which
products can and should be used on
a project -- even hunting down the
origin of certain materials.
"A client will want us to do a patch-
and-repair, and I'll have to pull pieces
of it off and send it to the source,"she
explained."It's 30 years old -- `Here's
this material, is it yours?'"
"Fireproofing is a life safety issue,
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
31

HUMAN RESOURCES UPDATE
Due diligence key to hiring
the right employees
BARBARA STALLONE,
SPHR
I1fyouareresponsibleforhiringan ground check list. Charm can fool Previoussalary
employee, here are a few issues
the best of interviewers.
How much were you making in
you may want to consider before
your last job? Do you really care?
making a job offer. Sometimes, if an
Everybody is a supervisor
What you should care about is how
applicant looks too good on paper, it's
Are you curious what applicants
much their talent and qualifications
because he or she is.
claim to have "supervised" when
fit the job and what you are paying
But first, can you believe it? What
describing their previous job duties?
for that position. Asking for previous
you read on the internet, on the
Everyone wants to be promoted;
salary could be a risky question.
resume and on the application may
maybe that is why they are looking
Some people will pad their
not be true. If you are a fan of fiction,
for a new employer.
previous salary to show they are
you may find what the applicant has
Make sure they did indeed super-
worth more. On the other end,
put in writing quite entertaining.
vise or manage a department or
good applicants might be lost if you
The percentage of fraud -- up to
whatever they are claiming.
assume they will not be satisfied
40 percent -- is real, so beware of
accepting a lower salary.
what you read.
Salary is only third on the list of
Applicants do have the right to
what keeps an employee with your
tell their story and to look good on
company.
paper. This is a common practice
called "puffing." Understanding the
While you hire a
Criminal records
difference between fabrication and
Background checks and veri-
person for his or her
puffing is critical. So what are they?
fying information is a must. The
correct wording needs to be on your
Degree that is not earned
skills, knowledge
employment application. A criminal
This is a classic fabrication and
background does not necessarily bar
and abilities,
the most common. It includes people
someone from employment.
listing schools they attended on
you also hire the
their application or resume but not
Dishonesty
receiving a degree. People with a few
Above all, if a person lies or the
personal behaviors
credits might decide to award them-
information provided on an appli-
selves a degree.
that come with
cation turns out to be fraudulent,
Best yet are those who claim
this is certainly a valid reason to
degrees from schools they never
those skills.
consider not hiring. Cover your
attended.
company and prevent future people
problems with the properly worded
Fake degrees
application and relevant disclosure
"Degree mills" are like "puppy
statements. A completed and signed
mills," so beware of what may seem
application should be a condition of
to be authentic but is not. Anyone
Dates, dates and more dates
being considered for employment.
with a credit card can buy a degree
These should be accurate to
Employment applications can be
off the internet. Oh, yes, the school
reflect the months and years of
paper or electronic.
might sound familiar, but it might
previous employment. Often these
not exist.
will be fudged to avoid explaining
Know how to interview
Screen closely by adding diploma
gaps in employment. Gaps are OK if
It is not difficult to spot the
and degree verification to your back-
they are for legitimate reasons.
frauds. There is no perfect method
32
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

for interviewing, but if you ask
of moving past the dating stage
of law to an individual's specific circum-
behavior-based or open-ended inter-
and figuring out how to live with
stances. Although we go to great lengths
view questions that prevent textbook
the person. While you hire a person
to make sure our information is accurate
answers, you will usually get better
for his or her skills, knowledge and
and useful, we recommend you consult
results.
abilities, you also hire the personal
a lawyer if you want professional
behaviors that come with those
Above all, make sure you
assurance that our information, and your
skills.
perform your due diligence
interpretation of it, is appropriate to your
If you have missed the boat
Verify that the information the
and not hired the right person
particular situation.
applicant provided is factual. Take
the first time, use this advice and
the time to ensure you are getting the
spend enough energy in the pre-
Barbara Cruz Stallone, SPHR, is the
best qualified person in your appli-
employment process to make sure
owner of Stallone & Associates LLC.
cant pool for the position. Don't hire
you get the right person next time.
She is a 35-plus-year human resource
a "warm body" because the hiring
professional. She was a partner with
process is time-consuming.
This column provides information
the Human Resource Umbrella LLC for
Hiring an employee is much like
about the law designed to help users
16 years before selling that company,
a marriage. When the job applicant
safely cope with their own legal needs.
and is a member of AGC. Suggestions
signs the offer letter, you have just
However, legal information is not the
for future articles or questions may be
said "I do!" Now you have the fun
same as legal advice -- the application
emailed to b.stalloneak@gmail.com.
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
33

SOUTHCENTRAL DENTAL CLINIC
TAKES INSPIRATION
FROM CHUGACH RANGE
By J3amey 1B3radBury
T1he latest building to go up "This project is very much the MedicalCentercampus.Buttomaxi-
on Southcentral Foundation's
vision of the Southcentral staff,"
mize space and increase parking, SCF
busy campus is a five-story,
said Royal Field, Neeser's design-
requested that Neeser and its project
112,000-square-foot, 32-chair Chil-
build coordinator. "Our team simply
architect, Kumin and Associates, add
dren's Dental Clinic that will also
provided them with guidance, design
three more floors to the building and
house OB/GYN, maternal health,
and construction knowledge, and the
increase the parking structure to the
behavioral health and adolescent
right tools to enable their vision."
maximum allowable size within the
psychology facilities. The $64 mil-
That vision started as a two-story
project site, a change that evolved into
lion design-build project, awarded to
building with a basement intended to
a 499-stall parking structure.
design-builder Neeser Construction
house a pediatric dental clinic, plus
The size and location of the new
Inc., broke ground in June.
surface parking, on the Alaska Native
clinic presented challenges, however.
ciateS
a9SSoDanin
um
f8K9o
urteSyco
to
P9ho
A rendering of the southwest perspective of the new Children's Dental Clinic on the Southcentral Foundation/Alaska Native Medical Center
campus. Inspiration for the building's design was derived from the nearby Chugach Mountains.
34
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

One of the first hurdles Neeser had
to overcome was replatting four
adjoining properties into one prop-
erty to construct the building and
parking structure to their maximum
Title 21-permitted size, allowing for
optimal land use. Altering the planned
height of the building also required
an amendment to the newly adopted
Title 21 regulations; the city changed
the codes to increase the maximum
building height in the U-Med district
from 45 feet to 75 feet.
"Without the dedicated and
timely assistance we received from
Terry Schoenthal and his Plan-
ning Department staff to champion
this amendment for approval by the
Assembly, this project might not have
happened," Field said.
SCF contributors -- which in-
cluded director of facilities James
Sears and project manager Ed Zernia,
as well as key players from dental
services, medical services, organiza-
tional development and IT staff -- had
a clear vision for what they wanted
out of the clinic, including several
meeting areas and talking spaces,
plus two decks that will allow staff to
gather outdoors. Inside, the basement
houses dental storage, locker rooms, a
workout room, a large dental instru-
ment sterilization area and other
dental support functions.
The main dental floor includes
12 orthodontic bays and 20 dental
bays, eight of which are closed bays
for general pediatric dental treat-
ment; the eight enclosed treatment
rooms have sound control for acous-
tical privacy. The second floor is
almost entirely dedicated to training,
with classrooms and large confer-
ence rooms that can be partitioned
into several smaller training areas. A
pediatric faculty room allows proce-
dures to be monitored and recorded
for training purposes.
Many of the clinic's spaces incor-
porate circular forms and are designed
with the patient in mind -- namely,
children and adolescents.
"The design had to be modern
and elegant to serve the needs of the
staff, yet progressive and cool enough
not to scare away the adolescent
customer-owners," explained Jon
Stolle, Kumin's principal-in-charge
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
35

on the project. "It's not pediatric in
that it's a playland; it has to kind of
walk the line."
SCF's working g roups also re-
quested that the design of the
building be unintimidating for fami-
lies and patients, a detail that Kumin's
architects incorporated into the theme
of the clinic, which was inspired by
the nearby Chugach Mountains.
"A lot of the buildings on SCF's
campus are named for mountains, so
since our building is one of the taller
ones, we played up the metaphor of a
mountain," Stolle said. To create the
.
illusion of a series of peaks receding in
c2i3n
the background, the building's public
n
entrance uses curved forms and a step
Structio
in the floor plate at each floor level. "It
n2c3o
brings that five-story facade down to a
human scale, which is less imposing."
n3eeSerfo
Materials like the stacked rusti-
cated stonework on the base of the
urteSyco
building and the aluminum composite
to
metal, which are varied in layout and
P3ho
The 112,000-square-foot clinic is a structural steel BRB frame system. Steel erection began in
color, help emphasize the mountain
October 2016.
mirage theme. The curved facade
and stepped roof forms of the public
Steel erection for the clinic portion
entrance also evoke a glacial waterfall
steel BRB frame system, is connected
of the project started in early October,
cascading down from a mountain.
at three stories to a parking garage,
while the parking structure founda-
Faux wood grain panels at the
a post tension structural concrete
tion is about three-fourths complete.
entry canopies and soffits tie in the
system, located across Tudor Center,
Work on the parking garage will be
natural landscape as well, while
allowing for easy access. Meanwhile,
suspended over the winter, restarting
inside the tile and stonework on the
the ground-level entrance will stand
in April.
floors and wood elements on the ceil-
40 feet from the road and will be soft-
Project subcontractors include
ings will create a warm and inviting
ened by a landscaped public plaza --
General Mechanical Inc. on HVAC,
atmosphere. The building, a structural
all intended to appeal to visitors.
Last Frontier Mechanical on plumb-
ing, MegaWatt Electric, Alaska Quality
Fire Protection, ATS Alaska on con-
trols and specialty systems, Contract
Hardware, Northern Geotechnical
Engineers and NGE-Terra Firma
Testing. In addition to Kumin,
primary designers include civil
engineer EBSC Engineering LLC,
Earthscape Landscape Architects,
.3c2i3nn
Struction2c3o
n3eeSerfo
urteSyco
to
P3ho
Project architects incorporated curved forms to soften the building's facade and create a
warmer, more inviting setting for visiting patients or customer-owners.
36
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

P4hotocourteSyof3n4eeSer3c4onStruction3i4nc3.
The scope of work on Southcentral Founda-
tion's new Children's Dental Clinic evolved
from a 55,000-square-foot, two-story
building with surface parking to a five-story
building with a connected multilevel parking
structure.
structural engineer Reid Middleton
and mechanical and electrical engi-
neer AMC Engineers.
"We work, along with the owner's
selected staff and administrators, as
a collaborative, integrated team to
deliver this project with an innovative
and thoughtful design through all
disciplines," Field said.
The project is slated for completion
in June 2018.
Jamey Bradbury is a freelance writer
who lives in Anchorage.
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
37

IT TAKES A
Project
Update
VILLAGE
TO HEAL
By C5Heryl 4C5Hapman
A glassed-in courtyard featuring comfortable seating, a play
area for children and five planters, each filled with plants
from one of Alaska's five Native regions, will be on the west
side of the ANMC's U-shaped 110,000-square-foot Patient
Housing. To the north, the new building stretches alongside
a birch forest with easy access to University Lake Trail and
glimpses of the peaceful lake.
�K10en 9G10raham 9P10hotoGraPhy9.10com 9-- P10hoto 9c10ourteSy of 9n10eeSer 9c10onStruction
ANMC is a medical option for the 153,000 Alaska
ANMC patient housing and 7Natives and Native Americans who live in the state, and
nearly 60 percent of its patients travel to Anchorage from
sky bridge near completion
distant villages, said Michelle Weston, public relations
T
director for the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consor-
he big thing about the Alaska Native Medical Cen-
tium, which, with Southcentral Foundation, manages the
ter's new Patient Housing is the countless number
hospital complex and the Alaska Native Primary Care
of small details that award-winning Neeser Con-
Center.
struction is incorporating into the six-story, $40.74 million,
The new patient housing will have 200 rooms, each
110,000-square-foot building and its sky bridge to make it
with a private bath (a total of 260 beds), said Neeser senior
feel like home to patients and their families.
project manager Neil Bhargava. This will relieve pres-
From the beginning, the design team at KPB Architects
sure on ANMC's former on-campus family and patient
of Anchorage drew on Alaska Native values, lifestyles,
housing, Quyana House, whose 54 rooms have been
activities, stories, plants and animals to create familiar
accommodating as many as 545 people every month.
healing spaces for patients from infants to elders who need
Almost 500 other people have had to be referred to private
temporary continuing care but not formal hospitalization.
hotels as overflow each year.
40
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

Numbers tell the story, Weston
said: The hospital's 167 beds serve
7,526 admissions annually; in 2015,
there were 118,488 specialty clinic
visits, a 46 percent jump since 2012
(the total number of outpatient visits
was 316,203); 60,348 people went
to the emergency room; surgeons
performed 16,079 operations; and
1,641 babies were born.
The additional housing and its
195-foot sky bridge to the hospital will
give patients easy access to medical
care and improve its continuity, espe-
cially important for cancer patients
who require infusion and radiation
therapy, outpatients undergoing spec-
ialized medical care, expectant
mothers with high-risk pregnancies,
children and elders.
Elements such as larger dining
and gathering spaces were designed
to accommodate the tradition of
visiting with family during times
of healing, said LeeAnn Garrick,
ANTHC's senior director of strategic
access. A traditional courtyard garden
was added to provide a natural setting
where guests from every region will
recognize plants from home.
The U-shaped building with a
central glass courtyard links to a
parking garage on the east. Two
passenger elevators and one freight
elevator will carry people and equip-
ment from the lobby to every floor,
all the way up to the sixth-floor
Ronald McDonald House for mothers
with high-risk pregnancies, pediatric
patients and family members.
This area, the only Ronald Mc-
Donald House in Alaska, will have
34 rooms, each with a bathroom, full-
size bed and sleeper chair; common
areas with comfortable seating; a
kitchen; access to a workout space, a
business center, self-serve laundry and
a cafeteria; and a library with books
mothers can take home. Classes in
skills such as beading and healthy
cooking with traditional foods will
promote Alaska Native culture.
The Patient Housing has expan-
sion built in, said Andrew Weiss, KPB
Architects' lead project designer. "All
single rooms on the second and third
floors easily convert to doubles. The
site is tight and it has been a chal-
lenge to fit everything on it, but we've
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
41

n
Struction1c2o
n2eeSerfo
urteSy1c2o
to
ho1P--2m
y1.2co
raPhGto
ho1P
am
rah1G
K2en1�
A 195-foot pedestrian sky bridge spanning Tudor Centre Drive from the Alaska Native Medical Center's hospital to its new Patient Housing will
allow patients and their guests to walk easily from their accommodations to medical treatment, whatever the weather.
had lots of experience working with
a large-screen TV to help them heal
October 2015 to study Alaska wildlife
Neeser -- over 20 years of working
through art and play," Weiss said.
for the Patient Housing installation,
together -- and we're a good fit as a
A British design firm, Nexus Inter-
"Wilderness Wiggle,"Weiss said.
team."
active Arts, created the first such inter-
The pioneering interactive game on
Birches were chosen as a unifying
active game, "Woodland Wiggle," for
a 90-inch TV within a play space "will
design motif.
the new Royal London Hospital for
allow children to enter into a storybook-
"We studied birch forests, the
children. Nexus artist Chris O'Shea
illustrated world enabling them to paint,
trees and the intervals between the
and development director Claire
play music and trigger sun, rain, snow
trees, and we worked out that rhythm
Spencer Cook flew to Anchorage in
and rainbows with animated native
and used it to place the lighter-colored
panels and the tall windows on the
exterior," Weiss said.
n
"Our goal for the inside was for
it to feel comfortable, at home, safe.
Struction
That's why the courtyard is internal
c2o
and surrounded by super-clear glass.
n2eeSer
Patients and their families can enjoy a
fo
natural environment in safety without
urteSy
having to go out in public. The court-
c2o
to
yard plan is based on a mask, though
ho1P
you can't really see it unless you're
--2m
looking from above.
y1.2co
"One courtyard element is a
raPhG
natural playground for children --
to
ho1P
no scary stuff but big grass mounds,
am
wood, a slide and benches around
rah1G
it for the families. One of the things
K2en1�
we're most excited about is a game
The new six-story Patient Housing facility under construction at the Alaska Native Medical
that allows the children to interact
Center links to a parking garage to the east and will face a future building, ANMC's Skilled
with Alaska wildlife characters on
Nursing Facility, to the west.
42
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

animal characters across a number of
Alaska scenes, Neeser's Bhargava said.
Other built-in comforts include
family gathering kitchens on the
second and fourth floors, dietary
training, living areas and a market-
place, he said.
Throughout, the color palette is
basically neutral, but each floor's
accent colors, graphics and feel are
taken from a plant native to each
of the five regions, Weiss said. The
graphic designs were developed
collaboratively between the ANTHC
Marketing Department and KPB
Architects.
The bulk of the money to build
the Patient Housing facility and sky
bridge came from Alaska Legislature-
approved Certificates of Participation,
similar to bonds, sold to investors by
the state in 2014. KPB completed the
design work that October; Neeser
won the general contract lump sum
to build it in February 2015 and broke
ground that May, said George Tuck-
ness, Neeser senior project manager.
July was a big month: The Patient
Housing's foundation was completed,
and by November the steel and roofing
work were done and crews had begun
the interior. In spring 2016, sky bridge
construction got underway.
The Patient Housing isn't Neeser's
only project on the Alaska Native
Health campus. The company also
built a four-story, 172,000-square-foot
parking garage abutting the Native
Primary Care Center, and the Alaska
Native Medical Center's Hybrid Radi-
ology Operating Room, Endoscopy
Day Surgery facility and the Radi-
ology Server Room, Tuckness said,
in addition to renovating the clinic in
the ANTHC Healthy Communities
Building.
Bhargava is also heavily involved
with work on the 112,000-square-
foot Southcentral Foundation's Chil-
dren's Dental Clinic on a design/build
contract, and a 499-space parking
garage.
Patient Housing's grand opening is
set for Jan. 11, though the first guests
will be welcomed into the new facility
on Jan. 2, ANTHC's Garrick said.
Cheryl Chapman is a writer and editor
for MARCOA Publishing in Anchorage.
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
43

PACIFIC
SPACEPORT
POISED FOR
BUSY
�K12en11G12raham11P12hotoGraPhy
LAUNCH
.12com11--P12hotocourteS
SEASON
yof11D12aviS11c12onStructorS11&e12nGineerS
The Launch Support Structure at the Pacific Spaceport Complex -- Alaska was
severely damaged in the Aug. 25, 2014, rocket failure during a launch. Davis
Constructors was tapped to rebuild the facility and wrapped up the work in August.
Renovations repair damage,
prepare Kodiak facility for
renewed activity
By r2indi 1W2Hite
The Pacific Spaceport Complex -- Alaska has commanding views.
Workers reported seeing deer, bison and occasionally whales on the
commute to and from the facility.
� K15en 14G15raham 14P15hotoGraPhy14.15com14--P15hoto courteSy of 14D15aviS 14c15onStructorS 14& e15nGineerS
44
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

I1twasthesecondtestofarocket-
launched hypersonic glider, de-
signed to reach anywhere in the
world in about an hour. But a few sec-
onds after liftoff on Aug. 25, 2014, the
rocket failed and the resulting explo-
sion rocked the Kodiak-based launch
facility where the rocket originated,
causing millions of dollars' worth of
damage.
No one was hurt in the blast.But the
Kodiak Launch Complex, renamed the
Pacific Spaceport Complex -- Alaska,
or PSCA, has not launched a rocket
since, awaiting a long list of repairs to
the complex to be completed.
In September 2015, Alaska Aero-
space Corp. selected Davis Construc-
tors & Engineers Inc. to do the
$23 million renovation project.
DavisfinishedthejobinAugust,and
Alaska Aerospace held a Reconstruc-
eerS
tion, Dedication and Return to Flight
inG
Ceremony at PSCA, co-hosted with
e4n
the Kodiak Chamber of Commerce.
rS3&
Alaska Aerospace president and chief
Structo
executive officer Craig Campbell said
n3c4o
the ceremony "mark(ed) the date that
aviS
our facilities were once again ready to
f3D4o
support customer launches."
urteSy
Now the company is gearing up for
co
to
a busy slate of launch activity begin-
P4ho3--
ning in 2017.
m
y3.4co
State-owned company launching
raPhG
U.S. Army weapon system
to
ho3P
The Alaska Aerospace Corp., or
am
AAC, is a state-owned company that
rah3G
operates the PSCA. AAC headquar-
en3K�
ters are in Anchorage. The PSCA
The reconstruction was paid for by state insurers and managed by the State Division of Risk.
was built in the late 1990s and, since
that time, Campbell said, it has seen
Because AAC is a state-owned
debris at the site, said Luke Blomfield,
17 launches.
corporation, it's part of the state's
senior project manager and principal
"Our 17th launch was on
insurance pool, Campbell said, and
at Davis.
Aug. 25, 2014, for the U.S. Army
therefore it pays annual premiums to
"Our scope was to demo out and
Space and Missile Defense Command
be covered against property damage.
repair any and all structural issues,"
(SMDC). That launch supported
The reconstruction project, which
Blomfield said.
the test and evaluation phase of
Campbell estimates will end up costing
A site analysis had already been
the Advanced Hypersonic Weapon
about $33.5 million, was paid for by
done to determine which structural
system. This launch was a test that
state insurers and managed by the
pieces needed to be replaced, Blom-
did not include any weapon system
state Division of Risk Management.
field said, but Davis brought its own
on board," Campbell wrote by email.
structural engineer, Derek Hopewell,
"Unfortunately, that was our last
Davis Constructors selected
to re-evaluate the site.
launch, as the rocket failure severely
to rebuild after cleanup
Blomfield said that Davis workers
damaged our Launch Support Struc-
When Davis Constructors arrived
took down damaged structural steel,
ture (LSS), the Integration and
at the PSCA in September 2015,
completely took down the SCAT
Processing Facility (IPF), and the
another contractor had already re-
building, then began the rebuilding.
Spacecraft Assembly and Transfer
moved damaged insulation and
The LSS is where the multi-story
(SCAT) facility."
exterior building panels, as well as
rockets are launched. It's 18 stories
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
45

mous coiling and megadoors and
man doors throughout the complex,
and rebuilt all the mechanical and
electrical systems that were in the
partially buried heart of the facility.
The company also corrected or
replaced the underground lines that
connect the mechanical and electrical
equipment to the other buildings on
the complex.
The structural demands of the
facility and heavy wind loads inherent
to Kodiak Island meant some of the
components had to be heavily rein-
forced, like the numerous 20-foot
by 40-foot megadoors on several
buildings.
Senior project manager David
Sterling said that four of the coiling
eerSinG
doors at the IPF structure required
e3n
huge bolts in the door jamb -- two
rS2&
rows of 1�-inch diameter by 5�-inch
Structo
long -- to be placed in 1-foot incre-
n2c3o
ments along each side of the door.
aviS
That's 96 bolts on each side or 192 bolts
f2D3o
in each door, he said, to support for
urteSy
the intense wind loads and expected
co
to
seismic activity.
P3ho
"When we get the big earthquake,
--3m
we're all going to go under those
y2.3co
doors," Sterling joked.
raPhGto
Another challenging piece was
ho2P
dealing with the movement of the
am
LSS building.
rah2G3en
"It's like opening one of these
K�
high-rises here in Anchorage," Ster-
The interior of the Launch Support Structure was entirely re-coated with insulation and
ling said. "It's on a rail and as it moves,
rebuilt.The building splits in half, opening on rails, and is topped by a 75-ton crane.
it kind of wiggles and jiggles."
The motion sometimes caused
tall and splits into two sections, both
which is extremely difficult, weather-
pieces to loosen or move, he said.
sides rotating on rails, with Hillman
wise and light-wise," Blomfield said.
A 75-ton crane near the top of the
rollers, around a protective, fixed
"We were working in up to 35-mile-
building adds a significant amount of
service structure, into a completely
an-hour winds."
weight to the moving structure.
open position that exposes the rocket
The crew got the LSS enclosed
"Every time you open it up and
for takeoff.
in late April, roughed in the inte-
close it, something's not aligned
"We completely redid the exterior
rior space and applied an industrial
perfectly," he said.
envelope, installed the 20-foot by
coating, then wrapped up the interior
But the job was remarkable in
40-foot megadoor and added all new
in August.
other ways, he said. Working on
mechanical and explosion-proof elec-
Meanwhile, work on the other
Kodiak Island, 50 miles from down-
trical systems throughout," Blomfield
buildings on site continued. The Inte-
town Kodiak, was at times breath-
said.
gration and Processing Facility had
taking. Sterling said that each day's
suffered significant damage, Blom-
commute to the site included deer,
Winter rebuild made
field said. Davis replaced new man
eagle, grizzly bear and other wildlife
work a challenge
doors and four new 20-foot-wide
sightings and sometimes delays due
The crew worked through the
by 40-foot-high coiling doors and
to open-range cattle or bison from a
winter, which proved difficult when
the entire mechanical and electrical
nearby bison ranch.
it came to the 170-foot launch facility.
systems.
"Sometimes you drive by and
"We were able to start paneling
Davis replaced or reworked struc-
don't see any buffalo, and sometimes
the exterior in January, in Kodiak,
tural steel, insulated siding, enor-
you drive by and there's 100 buffalo in
46
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

�K2en1G2raham
P2hotoGraPhy1.2com
--P
hotocourte
Syof1D2aviS1c2onStruct
orS1&e2nGineer
S
Rockets will be launched from the reconstructed Launch Support Structure, which is 18 stories tall.
the middle of the road," he said.
or THAAD, program. The contract
Other times the crew would leave
requires some facility improvements,
the site and see whales going back and
which PSCA is making in advance of
forth across the North Pacific Ocean,
the first THAAD launch, planned for
occasionally breaching, he said.
summer 2017.
Sterling said an unexpected chal-
Campbell said that AAC also
lenge of the project was difficulty
negotiated a launch support contract
getting local workers to join the
with Rocket Lab USA for develop-
project. Many didn't want to make
ment and testing of their Electron
the drive every day, he said, although
rocket. The first test launches will
several did join the Davis Construc-
be next year, he said, and AAC will
tors crew, along with numerous
provide range safety, telemetry and
subcontractor crews.
flight safety support from the compa-
At its peak, Sterling estimated that
ny's New Zealand launch facility on
about 60 workers were on the project.
the Mahia peninsula.
Campbell said that Davis did good
"We have deployed one of our
work.
Range Safety and Telemetry Systems
"The rebuild of the damaged facili-
to New Zealand and will use this
ties at the Pacific Spaceport Complex --
equipment to support Rocket Lab
Alaska was a very challenging project.
launches throughout 2017. We are
Davis Constructors served as our
in the process of negotiating for
general contractor for this project and
commercial launches of the Electron
did an outstanding job working with
rocket from PSCA starting in 2018,"
us to ensure the rebuilt facility met
he wrote.
the unique engineering and construc-
tion requirements for aerospace facili-
AAC is also working with Vector
ties that support rocket launches from
Space, another U.S. commercial
Alaska. I am exceptionally pleased
launch vehicle company interested in
with the professional workman-
launching from Alaska. The company
ship Davis provided to this project,"
worked with PSCA on non-launch
Campbell said by email.
activities in 2015 and is negotiating
with AAC for a first test launch from
Planning for future launches
PSCA in early 2017, with more launches
Campbell said that the PSCA is
expected later in the year, Campbell
gearing up for a busy launch season
said.Vector Space is planned as the first
ahead. In 2016, AAC signed a multi-
launch from PSCA since the facilities
year, multi-launch contract with the
were damaged, Campbell said.
Missile Defense Agency, valued at
$80.4 million, to support the MDA's
Rindi White is a freelance writer who
Terminal High-Altitude Air Defense,
lives in Palmer.
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
47

ALLIED STEEL CONSTRUCTION INC.
By r8aCHael 2K8vapil
Family-run company built on
LE 6customer service, solid relationships
OFI 1G2eorgeHaley,generalmanagerofDokoo- Though Arthur Cederberg handles the day-
zian Construction LLC, says it might sound
to-day operations as president, Delbert Cederberg
corny to use the word "family" to describe
has built a solid reputation for Allied Steel since
his relationship with Allied Steel Construction Inc.
establishing the company in 1974. Arthur joined the
However, after more than 30 years working with
company as a teenager in 1984 sweeping floors and
CEO Delbert Cederberg and watching his son Ar-
learning the business. In 1999, Allied Steel became
thur work his way to company president, he isn't
a corporation, and the majority of responsibility
sure there is a better word.
transferred from father to son. In 2010, Allied Steel
"Our offices used to be very near each other,
became Anchorage's first and only Municipality of
BERPR 2walkingdistance,justdownthestreetatonetime," Anchorage-certifiedstructuralfabricator.
Haley said. "I watched the kids grow up and Arthur
The scope of its business has changed only
take over the team. Even now I can drive to the
slightly over the years with a primary focus
shop and talk like we were family. In fact, Delbert
on fabricating and supplying structural and
EM 2stoppedinandwecaughtuptheotherday."
miscellaneous steel for commercial, industrial and
M
.4c3i4nn
Struction3c4o
teel3S
a4llieDfo
urteSyco
to
P4ho 5In addition to sculptures and structures, Allied Steel has built many of the cages at the Alaska Zoo including new caging for the
upcoming polar bear Maternity & Transition Facility.
48
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

Likewise, the company is always
willing to help out with installation
projects of all types and sizes.
Allied Steel has been an AGC of
Alaska member since 1997. Delbert
Cederberg said that AGC has helped
P1h
connect his company with local
oto
contractors and suppliers and he has
cour
made good use of its Online Plans
teSyo
P
center.
f
h
r
o
y
to
The growth of Allied Steel from
an
c
a
o
i
ur
1974 to now continues. Back then
r
teSy
Delbert Cederberg ran the company
of0a1l
alone. Now the roster is made up
lieD0S
of 14 employees including Arthur
teel
Cederberg; Arthur's wife, Sasha; and
c1on
two of Delbert's grandsons. Not that
Struc 2there haven't been challenges.
tion
Delbert Cederberg said that deal-
i1nc0.
ing with new specifications and
The Kay Linton Memorial Ice Fountain by Carl Nesjar lights up outside the Z.J. Loussac
government regulations has created
Library in Anchorage. Allied Steel fabricated and assembled the structure.
more red tape. Finding employees
with the right mix of skills can also
residential buildings. This includes
F&W, including antenna structures,
be difficult, especially in an age when
the fabrication of specialty steel stair-
structural steel buildings and most
people focus more on specialization.
cases, handrails, ladders and canopies.
recently the FAA's Seismic Improve-
And, of course, no one can ignore the
Plus, work on a few unique projects
ments at Anchorage Center.
looming recession in the state.
such as building many of the cages
Capps describes Allied Steel as an
Still Allied Steel plans to forge
at the Alaska Zoo and new caging for
Alaska company that is always there
forward, acquiring new customers
the upcoming polar bear Maternity &
for its customers, they're all about
and building the next generation of
Transition Facility.
service, and they always go the extra
structures in Alaska.
In the past, Allied Steel produced
mile."
a large number of sculptures that
Haley echoes Capps assessment,
Rachael Kvapil is a freelance writer
can still be found across the state.
saying the quality output is consistent.
and photographer who lives in Fairbanks.
The most well-known is "Arctic
Amphibian," an abstract sculpture at
the Federal Building and U.S. Court-
house in Fairbanks; a model of the
sculpture is on permanent display in
the Smithsonian Institution in Wash-
ington, D.C.
"We have one of the best reputa-
tions in Alaska resulting from years
of delivering projects on time and
steel that is detailed and fabricated
correctly and fits together in the field
P
with no problems," Delbert Ceder-
hoto
berg said.
cour
"Everything in this business is
teSy
about reputation, and Allied is at the
of0a1l
top of that list," said Robby Capps,
lieD0S
president of F&W Construction.
teel
Capps said F&W's relationship with
c1on
Allied Steel began as a friendship
Stru
between Delbert and his grandfather
ction
Al Wiederholt well before he joined
i1nc0.
F&W in 1988.
Allied Steel Construction fabricated the "Arctic Amphibian" sculpture by Gerald Conway
Over the years, Allied Steel has
at the Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse in Fairbanks. The model, also constructed by
worked on numerous projects with
Allied Steel, is on permanent display at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, D.C.
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
49

SAFETY
REPORT
Ensuring indoor air quality 0CHRISROSS,CSP,CPLP
President,
The Engagement Effect
during winter construction
Part one
C0onstructionworkersinAlaska
Unprotected ductwork or improper
can face many challenges, es-
storage of materials on the job site can
Alleviating hazards
pecially during winter. Tight
also lead to contamination.
construction schedules and low tem-
Therefore it is essential in the
actually begins in
peratures contribute to a number of
design phase to consider site environ-
hazards that need to be managed to
the design phase
mental conditions to reduce the effects
ensure worker safety.
of moisture damage and contamina-
One of the biggest hazards can
before ground is
tion during construction. To avoid
be indoor air quality (IAQ) during
contamination of installed products,
broken. Careful
and after construction. These IAQ
the entry of construction materials
hazards can affect workers as well
needs to be carefully planned.
attention to
as building tenants. There are many
For example, it is important to
potential contaminants that can affect
delay the installation of absorptive
materials and
air quality, some of which can be
materials (such as furniture, ceiling
increased by cold weather construc-
scheduling work
tiles or carpet) until high-emission
tion techniques such as tenting and
activities (caulking, painting and
heating that can create additional
flow is the first step.
use of sealants and adhesives) are
hazards.
completed and flush-out is accom-
These can be mitigated by
plished. If scheduling does not allow
careful planning, exposure assess-
contract language, material review
for the correct sequencing/timing,
ment, testing, engineering and work
and selection processes, and effec-
then other isolation and protection
practice controls, and good project
tive control strategies combined with
methods must be employed.
management.
proactive communication can success-
Schedule compression can often
This information will be presented
fully control pollutant levels, allay
lead to IAQ issue magnification, so
in two parts in The Alaska Contractor.
concerns and maintain construction
careful project planning and commu-
Part one will cover planning and
worker and final occupant comfort
nication are essential.
hazard assessment in this issue,
during and after construction.
Operating permanent HVAC
and part two will cover testing and
Proper construction sequencing
systems should be avoided during
monitoring, engineering and work
is essential to prevent mold, mois-
construction. This practice can intro-
practice controls, and reporting and
ture and contamination problems.
duce many potential contaminants
responding in the spring issue.
An example of improper sequencing
into the system and building. The
would be installing drywall that
ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 62.1 Venti-
Planning
could absorb or retain moisture
lation for Acceptable Indoor Air
Alleviating
hazards
actually
before the building is dried in, poten-
Quality provides guidance for use of
begins in the design phase before
tially leading to mold growth later.
filters during construction, but even
ground is broken. Careful attention to
Another example would be operating
with filters, contamination can occur.
materials and scheduling work flow is
permanent HVAC equipment during
Another factor during the design
the first step. Planning by designers
construction that could lead to system
phase is to schedule the building
and project managers, appropriate
contamination.
flush-out after activities with potential
50
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

IAQ are performed. In some cases, it
Microbial-contaminated materials
a chemical spill when containers fall
is reported that this period may need
require special precautions prior
from shelves.
to be extended up to 10 weeks to be
to demolition to prevent biological
successful.
dusts from dispersing in the occupied
Combustion sources: These in-
During the design phase, assess-
space. Another example of biological
clude vehicles, generators and com-
ment of building materials should
contamination is an accumulation of
pressors that might introduce carbon
also be reviewed. Designers should
bird or rodent droppings. In both cas-
monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen
use products designed and manufac-
es, uncontrolled disturbances could
oxides and sulfur dioxide into a space.
tured to produce the least harmful
spread potentially allergenic or infec-
Welding can produce these contami-
and irritating effects (such as LEED
tious dust to occupied building areas.
nants as well as ozone. These gases
or GREENGUARD standards). For
may cause eye, nose, throat and respi-
example, health hazards associated
Volatile organic compounds:
ratory system irritation. Carbon mon-
with Volatile Organic Compounds
VOCs are compounds that are read-
oxide exposure may cause headache,
(VOC) exposure can be minimized by
ily released in the form of a gas from
dizziness and rapid heartbeat, and at
choosing low VOC-emitting products.
building materials. Construction proj-
high levels it can be fatal.
ects may introduce a variety of VOC
Hazard assessment
emitters into a space. These com-
Heaters: Temporar y heating
Before work commences, the site
pounds are associated with a variety
devices play a large role in winter con-
safety team should conduct a hazard
of health symptoms. At high enough
struction in Alaska. They allow tem-
assessment in conjunction with the
levels, exposure can cause central
perature-critical work to be performed
owner, project manager, designer and
nervous system effects (headaches,
site superintendent.
and provide a more comfortable work-
drowsiness). At lower levels, they are
The team should consider all the
ing environment. Improper selection
reported to be irritants to the eyes,
potential sources of exposure. The
and use, however, can lead to serious
nose and throat. Use of the following
most common include:
consequences such as burns, carbon
categories of VOC-emitters should
monoxide poisoning, oxygen deficient
Particulates: Particulate mate-
initiate control strategies to minimize
atmospheres, fires or explosions. The
rial such as dusts and fibers are likely
occupant exposures: coatings, stains/
three main categories used are di-
to be produced during construction
varnishes, resilient flooring, caulks,
rect-fired heaters (commonly known
and renovation activities. Sources in-
fuels, cleaners, wall coverings, seal-
as salamanders or torpedoes), indi-
clude nuisance dusts created by cut-
ants, adhesives, composite wood prod-
rect-fired heaters and electric heat-
ting, sanding, disturbing dirty areas
ucts, paints, carpeting, fabrics and
ers. OSHA provides some guidance
or the installation of Portland cement,
draperies.
on using these devices (1926.154 -
gypsum, limestone, Plaster of Paris
Physical agents: These include
drywall, plaster, concrete, soil, wood,
Temporary heating devices).
noise, vibration and uncomfortable
masonry, flooring, roofing and duct-
temperatures, which can generate
Part two concludes in the next issue.
work.
complaints from building occupants
Fibers and toxic dusts: Materials
working adjacent to a renovation.
The Engagement Effect, a division
that contain fibers such as fiberglass-
Construction activities may interrupt
of Ross Performance Group LLC, offers
composite materials or insulation can
heating, ventilating and air condition-
solutions in organizational results, safety
irritate the skin, eyes and respiratory
ing services. Vibration can also con-
and health,leadership,talent management
tract when disbursed in the air and/or
tribute to more serious hazards such
and culture change. Learn more at www.
inhaled. Toxic dusts containing asbes-
as the delamination of asbestos mate-
www.theengagementeffect.comtheengagementeffect.com or email the
tos, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
rial in another space or the creation of
author at chris@theengagementeffect.com.
or lead can cause serious long-term
health effects.
Potential carcinogens: Particu-
lates that are subject to special regula-
tion include lead paint dust, which is
toxic to the nervous system, and as-
bestos, which is a carcinogen. Projects
that may disturb lead painted surfaces
or asbestos containing materials war-
rant close supervision
Biological materials: Chron-
ic dampnessfromwaterintrusionleads
to increased bacteria, mold and other
microbes in a building environment.
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
51

n
r8ecreatioDan
arKS
e7P
raG
cho7a8nfo
Emerging Leaders helped the Parks and Recreation Department achieve its goal
of upgrading play equipment and resurfacing the playground at Duldida Park in
urteSyco
a way that welcomes children from diverse backgrounds.
to
P8ho
EMERGING LEADERS
HELP PUT THE `PLAY'
IN A MOUNTAIN VIEW PARK
By d3aWnell 1S3mitH
T1he word "play" means more The goals included upgrading intotheplazainmultiplelanguages.
than swinging on the quad
play equipment, resurfacing the play-
We have over 100 languages in the
spinner at the new and im-
ground and providing more open
Anchorage School District. Based on
proved Duldida Park playground in
areas for diverse groups to play. The
cost and feasibility, we went with the
Mountain View. The term also cap-
$285,000 budget came from private
top 20 languages in the schools, plus
tures the way Alaskans relatively new
donors, grants and foundations.
Alaska Native languages."
to the construction industry can play
An Associated General Contrac-
Sean Hickel of Roger Hickel
a part in transforming community
tors of Alaska group known as
Contracting Inc. took it from there. A
spaces.
Emerging Leaders got involved when
participant in the Emerging Leaders
The Duldida project focused on
it asked the Anchorage Parks and
group, he started making calls to
turning a decades-old park into a
Recreation Department how it could
contractors with the expertise to build
safer, more inclusive area for kids
help with a community project.
the templates and do the sandblasting
and families in the neighborhood.
"We wanted to include a literacy
work.
Park planners involved park users,
and diversity component," said Taylor
including groups such as the Arc of
Keegan, a park planner with the
Emerging Leaders step up
Anchorage and the Boys and Girls
Municipality of Anchorage, "so we
Hickel got involved in AGC
Club, in designing and planning the
decided to move forward with the
of Alaska through his work with
project.
idea of sandblasting the word `play'
his father's company and believes
52
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

through the Salvation Army or putting
the "play" into a Mountain View Park.
Hickel considers his involve-
ment in Emerging Leaders and
AGC of Alaska as invaluable and
believes anyone working in the state's
construction industry benefits from
the group's work, even more so during
tough economic times.
AGC of Alaska offers its members
P3ho
online plans, political advocacy,
toco
education and training, publications,
urte
public relations and other services,
Syof
he said. "But besides all of that, AGC
a3nch
provides its members with a sense of
oraG
community, and the value you receive
e2P3a
from networking with peers in your
rKSa
industry is irreplaceable."
nD2r3ecr 0Industry-focused,
eatio
community-minded
n
Dale Houston, president of H&K
Emerging Leaders recruited H&K Sheetmetal Fabricators to create the stencils and
Sheetmetal Fabricators, had never
DAMA Industrial to do the sandblasting work at Duldida Park.
worked with Emerging Leaders until
the Duldida project, but he had worked
Emerging Leaders can bring in more
education events, some of them for a
with Roger Hickel Contracting.
people new to the industry. The group
small fee, and share in the Emerging
When he got the call from Hickel
welcomes anyone with two to 18 years
Leaders training track of the AGC of
to help, he jumped on board. "I'm
in the construction field.
Alaska conference.
community-minded," he said. "They
The idea, he said, is to help
The group also supports commu-
emailed the words over to me, we put
people new to the field get training,
nity projects, whether by planting
them into AutoCAD and I cut them
connect with others and participate in
trees for the city, sponsoring a family
into metal with my plasma machine."
community projects that develop their
capabilities.
ACG of Alaska started the group
in 2014 to draw people employed by
general contractors, suppliers, engi-
neers, architects and the construc-
tion trade, Hickel said, with the goal
of providing them "education and
training, networking opportunities
and advice from people who have
been in the construction trade for a
long time."
AGC of Alaska has over 650 busi-
nesses as members, according to
P
Lauren Sharrock, AGC membership
hoto
director and a member of Emerging
cour
Leaders. "Despite economic ups and
teSy
downs, our numbers have remained
of2a
at roughly that number for the last five
ncho
years," she noted, "and we're proud to
raGe2P
boast that over half of our members
arK
have been with us for longer than
SanD
10 years."
r3ec
About 100 people in the construc-
reat
tion industry have participated as
ion
Emerging Leaders, she added. Partici-
The word "play" was sandblasted in 20 languages and Alaska Native languages into
pants don't pay a membership fee, but
concrete at Duldida Park in Mountain View to reflect the diversity of the children who
they can get involved in social and
live in the neighborhood.
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
53

DAMA Industrial used those tem-
plates to sandblast the word "play"
into concrete.
Making the "play" element of the
project happen involved a true collab-
oration between Emerging Leaders,
AGC, its member businesses DAMA
and H&K, and the city's park and
recreation department.
"I lived my first six years in Moun-
tain View and was born and raised
in Anchorage," said Mike Anderson,
president of DAMA. "Doing this
project was a great thing."
Anderson talks about Hickel and
the other Emerging Leaders as "kids"
because they're in their 20s and 30s,
but he considers them peers and the
future of the industry.
"I've always been involved with
AGC," he explained. "Some of the
main leaders now were emerging
leaders back then. It's always been a
good organization. It's the construc-
tion field's future."
Dawnell Smith is a freelance writer
who lives in Anchorage.
Scholarship testimonials
Elliott Anderson
Noah Ottum
I'd like to express my sincere gratitude for the
I am extremely honored
generous scholarship AGC/CEF has awarded me.
and grateful to be receiving
Thank you for the recognition of my efforts. I feel
the AGC scholarship. As
very fortunate to have been chosen as one of the
a recipient, I am one step
recipients of this award.
closer to achieving my goal
I am going into my senior year at the University
of becoming a civil engineer.
of Alaska Fairbanks, majoring in civil engineering,
This generous donation
and plan on graduating in May 2017 with my bachelor's degree. During
will allow me to better focus on my academics over the
this time I've been a part of AGC's student chapter. The opportunities,
coming years without the strain of making ends meet.
encouragement and support AGC offers students like me are found nowhere
I look forward to completing my higher education at
else. With plans to work in the construction field, I know AGC will offer the
Colorado School of Mines and returning to Alaska.
same support and guidance as they already have while I was an undergrad.
Again, I would like to express my most sincere
Thank you again for your generous scholarship.
appreciation for this award.
These scholarships were funded by the Anchorage AGC golf tournament and CEF.
The Associated General Contractors, through the Construction Education Foundation and the Alaska Construction Academies,
How to 2is involved in all levels of construction education in Alaska. The Construction Academies provide entry-level construction
skill training to both secondary and post-secondary students. The foundation works with AGC of Alaska to offer the AGC
apply 2scholarshiptocollege-levelstudentstakingclassestowardadegreethatwillsupporttheAlaskaconstructionindustry.
The annual scholarship information is listed on the AGC of Alaska website every January.
We Build Alaska
www.agcak.orgwww.agcak.org
54
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

CONSTRUCTION
Project
RESUMES 8ON UAF
Update
ENGINEERING BUILDING
By t3raCy 1K3alytiaK
supervising the remainder of the
interior build-out, which includes the
D10avisConstructors&EngineersresumedworkontheUniver-
sity of Alaska Fairbanks Engineering Building in October
basement and the first through the
after the University of Alaska Board of Regents authorized
fourth floors.
an approximately $40 million bond package needed to complete the
"Construction that has been com-
$121.6 million project.
pleted to date is part of the core and
shell package, which includes all of
The Alaska Legislature, in 2012,
after the Legislature did not approve
the structural steel, concrete, exterior
allocated an initial $60 million for the
the money needed to complete the
glazed curtain walls, site work and
six-story, 119,000-gross-square-foot
facility and renovate 30,000 square feet
primary electrical and mechanical
structure, which ECI/Hyer Architec-
of the existing Duckering Building.
services," Bush said.
ture & Interiors designed. Construc-
Davis vice president Carl Swanson
The facility -- situated between the
tion was suspended in 2015, however,
and project manager Jon Bush are
Duckering and Bunnell buildings --
Construction on the University of Alaska Fairbanks Engineering
Building was restarted in October after university regents
authorized bonds to complete the building.
@ K5en 4G5raham 4P5hotoGraPhy4.5com4--P5hoto courteSy
of 4D5aviS 4c5onStructorS 4& e5nGineerS
56
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

will feature a 48-foot-high bay area
with a 4-foot-thick strong floor and an
120-foot-long overhead bridge crane
with an exterior garage door opening
that enables bridge girders and other
large structural beams to be rolled in
for testing.
"Engineering students and the
state will be able to use the high bay
to stress test large structural members
like concrete bridge girders and steel
beams to determine points of failure
during stress testing," Bush said.
Other features include in-floor
radiant heating with the capacity
to switch into cooling mode; room
features such as a woodshop, machine
shop, welding shop, subsurface hydro-
logy lab, geological materials lab,
chemical engineering labs, reservoir
rock and fluids lab, advanced tech-
nologies lab, fluid mechanics lab,
electronics labs and research labs;
audio-visual presentation design
theater; and one minus-40 ultra-low
cold room and four minus-20-degree
(Celsius) cold rooms.
Bush said Davis is also preparing
lab space that will house the univer-
sity's new multi-collector inductively
coupled mass spectrometer -- a van-
sized isotope-analyzing device the
university purchased with the help of
a $580,000 National Science Founda-
tion grant.
"One of the other bells and
whistles included in the TI (Tenant
Improvement) is a very cool terrazzo
floor that's going in a section of the
fourth floor," Bush said. "It's just a
section, but they're going to do a map
of the state of Alaska in terrazzo. It's
going to have the lat(itude)-long(itude)
lines, and you can see the oceans, part
of Russia and part of Canada."
In early November, workers were
roughing in mechanical and electrical
and beginning to frame in the walls,
Bush said. "We're working from the
top down to the basement," he said.
If all goes as planned, classes in
the facility will begin in January 2018.
"I'm very excited to be on the
project," Bush said. "It's a very unique
building."
Tracy Kalytiak is a freelance writer
who lives in Palmer.
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
57

P5hotos by
AGC OF ALASKA 2HONORS
BEST IN INDUSTRY
WITH 2016 AWARDS
58
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

I1n2016,Alaska'sconstructionin-
dustry built highways, bridges and
schools; renovated hospitals and
the Alaska Capitol; improved marine
docks and ferry terminals; and con-
structed airport runways and han-
gars, often in remote locations and
inhospitable weather. The Associ-
ated General Contractors of Alaska
gathered in November at its annual
conference at the Hotel Captain Cook
in Anchorage to celebrate these and
other accomplishments and to honor
the best among them.
During the dinner dance gala that
caps nearly a week of seminars, award
luncheons and the sharing of ideas,
AGC executive director John Mac-
Kinnon presented the Hard Hat Award
to Dave Cruz. The award, AGC's
highest honor, recognizes the person
who has demonstrated a lifetime of
He has been active in a number
Parker Smith and Feek
contributions and commitment to the
of charities and events throughout
Excellence in Construction Awards
construction industry in Alaska.
his community and the state. He is
Cruz, who has more than 35 years
Meeting the Challenge of a Job,
chairman of the Alaska Gas Devel-
of construction experience in remote
Over $15 million Vertical Construc-
opment Board and has served on the
sites in Alaska, has worked on the
tion Award: UNIT COMPANY for
Matanuska-Susitna Borough Port
trans-Alaska oil pipeline and helped
construction of a new K-12 school
Commission.
build the oilfields at Prudhoe Bay. In
in remote Koliganek. The project
1981, he started Cruz Construction,
Jack Grieco of Alaska USA Insur-
included a new 17,900-square-foot
which, under the umbrella of Cruz
ance Brokers received the Stan Smith
school, boiler building, water tank
Companies, has grown to one of the
Volunteer of the Year Award. Grieco is
and supporting site work and utilities,
largest in Alaska.
chair of the AGC Golf Committee and
plus demolition of the existing school.
"It's very humbling to be included
an Associates Council member who is
UNIT faced transportation con-
with that group of folks preceding me
always available to help when asked.
straints because of record low water in
who have given so much to the Alaska
SENCO Alaska Inc. was recog-
the Nushagak River and renovation of
construction industry," Cruz said. "It
nized as Associate of the Year for its
the existing airport. With innovative
was very much a surprise and was the
outstanding donation of time and
thinking, UNIT guaranteed that the
highlight of my career."
energy to support AGC's efforts.
project would be completed on time
Cruz is also an AGC board mem-
Accepting the award for SENCO,
and within budget. UNIT used 90 per-
ber and past AGC president.
Teri Gunter said, "I am thrilled to
cent of local residents in its workforce
"For the younger generation, you
receive this award. It's a pleasure to
and consistently involved local village
get into the construction industry
work with some amazing people who
leaders to ensure the community's
when you're young, and it's a life-
strive to make this association great!"
concerns were addressed.
time occupation that you can carry
AGC also honored Darl Schaaff
Meeting the Challenge of a Job,
for a lifetime," Cruz said. "I'm going
for his 25 years of emceeing and being
Between $5 million and $15 mil-
at it for 41 years now. It's not some-
the creative force behind the annual
lion Vertical Construction Award:
thing that's a short-term deal; you can
dinner dance, with MacKinnon
Cornerstone General Contractors Inc.
provide for you and your family and
presenting Schaaff with his own
for the West High School/Romig Middle
can make a difference."
award at the event.
School CTE renovation and addition.
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
59

on budget. The facility construc-
tion included a floating pontoon;
eight dolphin structures; 700 feet of
pile-supported, vehicle-rated trestle
and transfer span; and associated
appurtenances.
Meeting the Challenge of a Job,
Between $5 million and $15 million
Transportation, Marine, Heavy, Earth-
moving Award: Granite Construc-
tion Co. for Seward Highway MP
99-100 improvements.
The Seward Highway MP 99-100
improvements project was a tech-
nical, high-risk job that demonstrates
Granite's commitment to delivering
quality projects. From start to finish,
Cornerstone performed precon-
an average of 206 days of precipitation
Granite's crews met the challenge of
struction services and completed
a year against future water intrusion.
a difficult job. Lane shifts were used
follow-on construction for renovations/
to keep traffic flowing throughout the
Meeting the Challenge of a
additions of Career and Technical
project. Sound drilling and blasting
Job, Over $15 million Transporta-
Education spaces at West High School
techniques produced a safe and stable
tion, Marine, Heavy, Earthmoving
and Romig Middle School. Work
90-foot-high wall. Twelve culvert
Award: Turnagain Marine Construc-
included demolition, renovation and
crossings were replaced during the
tion for the Hoonah Berthing Facility
new construction.
project.
night shift to reduce impacts to traffic.
At West, the existing "Cove"
Turnagain Marine was selected
The project paving achieved the
structure was demolished to construct
via a best-value proposal to design,
maximum gradation, joint density
a 28,000-square-foot, two-story addi-
manage and construct the Hoonah
and smoothness bonus.
tion with 12 classrooms for digital
Berthing Facility. This design-build
Meeting the Challenge of a
media, health sciences and process
project for Icy Strait Point and Huna
Job, Under $5 million Transporta-
technologies. At Romig, an existing
Totem Corp. required Turnagain
tion, Marine, Heavy, Earthmoving
corridor used to access the West/
to provide a cruise ship berth to
Award: QAP for Arctic Boulevard
Romig library was repurposed, with
accommodate a large array of vessels
Improvements Phase III.
an 8,000-square-foot, one-story addi-
including the 1,067-foot Breakaway
Arctic Boulevard improvements
tion of three classrooms for shop,
class. In partnership with Transpac
from 36th Avenue to Tudor Road
business management and consumer
Marinas, Moffatt & Nichol and the
consisted of removing all curbs/gutters
sciences. Both schools remained open
remainder of the project team, Turn-
and sidewalks, existing illumination
throughout the construction period.
again Marine Construction delivered
system, signalization at three major
Meeting the Challenge of a Job,
this first-class facility on time and
intersections (Tudor, 40th and 36th)
Under $5 million Vertical Construc-
tion Award: Ahtna Environmental
Inc. for the Cordova housing siding
and interior renovations project.
The 5-year-old U.S. Coast Guard
family housing units in Cordova
experienced significant water leaks
that ruined floors and walls. Ahtna
Environmental performed work to
restore and improve all 13 family
housing duplex units. Phase 1 of the
project revealed that over 25 percent of
the duplex superstructure was rotted
through to the sheetrock with signifi-
cant damage to structural compo-
nents. In collaboration with the Coast
Guard, design improvements were
made to the siding system to protect
housing in an area that experiences
60
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

and storm drain structures. Installa-
tion items included all new storm drain
structures, storm drain leads, Cured
in Place Pipe (CIPP) lining of storm
mains, new illuminations system,
traffic signalization, seven new
transit stops, curbs and gutters, side-
walks, driveways, approaches, traffic
medians, curb ramps to meet Ameri-
cans With Disabilities Act criteria,
fencing and landscaping. Final con-
struction included complete road
planning, hot mix asphalt paving,
pavement markings and street
signage.
Excellence in Construction for
a Specialty Contractor -- Vertical
Construction Award: Rain Proof
Roofing for the Shemya Hangar 6
project.
60 percent of the time created chal-
"As a Specialty contractor, we
The project site lies 1,500 miles
lenges for maintaining a work
share our success with Brice Envi-
west of Anchorage on the Aleu-
schedule, hoisting materials, oper-
ronmental. The collaborative efforts
tian island of Shemya. The contract
ating safely and productively on a roof
and their support out in Shemya this
included removing 43,500 square feet
60 feet above the ground at its peak
summer assured the success of this
of roofing and rotted structural steel
and working on pitches with inclines
project."
decking and installing new substrate,
up to 70 degrees.
Excellence in Construction for
vapor barrier, insulation, sheathing,
Through the successful use of
a Specialty Contractor -- Trans-
underlayment and Standing Seam
safety equipment, aerial lifts, a Tele-
portation, Marine, Heavy, Earth-
Curved Metal Roof System.
handler forklift and crane, plus and a
moving Award: DAMA Industrial
One difficulty was coordinating
skilled crew and foreman, Rain Proof
LLC for the village of Wainwright
with suppliers to procure and deliver
Roofing completed the scope of work
emergency tank foundation repair
material to the Seattle docks by
in 15 days.
project.
May 2 for the annual barge that ships
"Rain Proof Roofing is really proud
DA M A Industrial completed
material and equipment to the island.
of this project," project manager Chris
repairs to the undermined tank foun-
Beyond the complex logistics, the
Reilly said. "We had a great group of
dation. This is the raw water storage
main concern was the North Pacific
guys working long, hard hours, which
tank for the village of Wainwright,
weather. An average daily wind speed
resulted in a large and difficult project
which is designed to hold 1 million
of 17 to 25 mph and rainy weather
completed on time and under budget.
gallons of water, allowing village resi-
dents to have sufficient water for the
long winter.
"It was basically an emergency
repair," said Mike Andersen, DAMA
president. "The project involved lots
of logistics," he said. "We had to fly
everything into Barrow."
This project had an exceptionally
short working period and was equally
technically challenging and critical.
DAMA provided an innovative solu-
tion in product recommendation,
logistics and installation methods to
complete all work on time and within
budget.
"(The damage) didn't happen
until the end of August, and the water
source starts freezing up at the end
of September, so we had to be done
by the end of September," Andersen
said. "It was a good job. It was totally
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
61

Excellence in Safety -- Highway
Division Award: Brice Inc.
As a civil construction contractor
that has been doing work in Alaska for
55 years, Brice Inc. knows the value of
a trained, reliable and safe workforce.
Emphasis is put on training at all
levels of projects, administration and
management. Daily tailgates, longer
orientation and new-hire training,
and relevant site-specific training
have contributed to a safer workplace
and a lower incident rate.
Excellence in Safety -- Specialty
Division Award: Alcan Electrical &
Engineering.
Alcan Electrical's commitment to
safety begins with its new-hire orien-
tation, where Alcan's written hazard
communication plan and the site-
specific safety plan are explained to
each employee.
unexpected that we would win an
in the Safety Excellence Building
Safety is a part of Alcan's work
award for it."
Division.
ethic. All employees attend the
Sustainability in Construction
According to Davis, "Safety is our
weekly safety job site meeting, where
Award: Davis Constructors & Engi-
culture; it starts at the top, is carried
continued safety education is taught.
neers Inc. for the Kings Landing at
through our organization with `lead-
For everyone at Alcan, the goal is to
Ship Creek Phase 2 in Anchorage.
ership by example' that is evident in
work productively and arrive home
Ship Creek is a favorite local fishing
every worker on site. Our pursuit of
safely at the end of each day.
this goal is dynamic, innovative and
"Alcan Electric is extremely proud
spot near downtown Anchorage.
ever-changing, but our focus remains
to have received the AGC Specialty
With the city skyline as a backdrop,
the same: `Safety above all, nothing is
Contractor Safety Award," said Scott
the area supports salmon runs and
more important.' Our greatest asset is
Bringmann, Alcan president. "We
provides habitat for many types of
our employees."
certainly want to thank all of our
shorebirds. This project enhanced
employees and their diligent efforts to
access to the fishery and turned a
Excellence in Safety -- Heavy
keep safety a top priority on all of our
previously grubby access point into
Division Award: Kiewit Infrastruc-
projects. The safety practices of our
an appealing park with sitting areas.
ture West Co. Kiewit also won AGC's
employees have become a large part
It also included a rain-fed pond
grand prize for safety.
of our company's culture and success.
that acts as a filter while treating
KIWC is committed to providing
We certainly look forward to keeping
runoff from the parking lot; a water
a safe workplace for its employees
both going strong into the future."
bottle-filling and pet-watering station
and takes its responsibility seriously
to decrease the need for plastic one-
to ensure its employees go home
Excellence
in
Safety
--
time use containers; and one of the
safe every day. A safety program
Individual Award: Candidates for
nicest public restrooms in the state.
usually revolves around rules and
this award were so strong that our
regulations that govern the job site.
decision resulted in a tie honoring
ConocoPhillips Excellence
However, these rules and regula-
two individuals for their outstanding
in Safety Awards
tions have often been generated as
commitment to workplace safety:
Excellence in Safety � Building
a result of unsafe behaviors. KIWC
Sarah Dow of Colaska Inc. and Ken
Division Award: Davis Construc-
developed its safety program with the
Parmenter of Davis Constructors &
tors & Engineers. The Anchorage
realization that it needed to focus on
Engineers.
contractor was honored for its safety
behavior in conjunction with rules
Sarah Dow, a project engineer for
record in delivering fast-track design-
and regulations. KIWC encourages
QAP (Colaska), demonstrates safety
build projects throughout the state.
and promotes many competencies
leadership every day, making others
Davis is committed to being a leader
on all its job sites such as authority,
aware of the safety commitment QAP
in safety and innovation in the Alaska
accountability, professionalism and
demands of all its employees by prac-
construction industry. In 2016, Davis
innovation. KIWC uses these compe-
ticing what she preaches, from asking
Constructors was recognized by the
tencies as the cornerstone of its safety
employees if the vehicle or piece of
Associated General Contractors of
program, tying each into its day-to-
equipment they are operating has a
America, placing third nationally
day operations and training.
fire extinguisher and first aid kit to
62
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

installing new extinguishers in rental
equipment. She carries Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE) in her
truck to hand out to field workers,
makes sure subcontractors know the
PPE policy and isn't afraid to tell them
it's mandatory, even at the expense
of upsetting them. Her most effective
tools to communicate QAP's "safe
production" goal are her actions and
working closely with work crews to
help keep them safe.
"I came from the field and transi-
tioned to my position in the office after
getting my construction management
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
63

degree," Dow said. "My responsibility
is now as a manager or supervisor to
bring everyone in the field along and
make safety a habit in everything
they do on the job. You can always
do it safer and quicker. We make it
inherent in everything they do, teach
them to do it safer, demand they do it
safer."
Dow knew she was nominated but
was surprised to receive the award.
"I really felt what I did was nothing
special, just important that we do it.
The president of Colaska has done
a lot to change the culture of safety,
AGC AWARD WINNERS
which is better for everybody."
Ken Parmenter, a superintendent
at Davis Constructors & Engineers,
FOR 2016
has been with the company since
1996, continually providing safety
HARD HAT AWARD (AGC's Top Award)
Vertical Under $5 million
to crews in the field. Throughout
Dave Cruz
his career, he has demonstrated the
Ahtna Environmental Inc.
Cruz Construction Inc.
ability to send crews home safe every
Project: Cordova Housing Siding and
day. His total project revenue of over
Stan Smith Volunteer of the Year
Interior Renovations
$300 million shows that Davis trusts
Jack Grieco
Transportation, Marine, Heavy,
him to complete some of the most
Alaska USA Insurance Brokers
complex and challenging jobs.
Earthmoving Over $15 million
Associate of the Year
"I'd like to thank Davis manage-
Turnagain Marine Construction
ment and AGC for the nomina-
SENCO Alaska Inc.
Project: Hoonah Berthing Facility
tion and selection of this award,"
CONOCOPHILLIPS EXCELLENCE
Transportation, Marine, Heavy,
Parmenter said. "Davis Construc-
IN SAFETY AWARDS
tors has an excellent safety program
Earthmoving Between $5 million and
Building Division
that is acknowledge throughout the
$15 million
Davis Constructors & Engineers Inc.
company. Safety on a job and espe-
Granite Construction Co.
cially a job like the Pacific Spaceport
Heavy Division and Grand Prize
Project: Seward Highway MP 99-100
Complex in Kodiak is not accom-
Kiewit Infrastructure West Co.
Improvements
plished by one person; it takes all the
workers' involvement. The crew on
Specialty Division
Transportation, Marine, Heavy,
that project did an exceptional job in
Alcan Electrical & Engineering Inc.
Earthmoving Under $5 million
working safely as a team to make it
Highway Division
QAP
successful.
Brice Inc.
Project: Arctic Boulevard Improvements
"This award belongs to all the
Phase III
employees who have worked for me
Individual (tie)
on Davis projects."
Sarah Dow, Colaska Inc. (QAP)
Specialty Contractor:
Ken Parmenter, Davis Constructors &
Vertical Construction
Engineers Inc.
Rain Proof Roofing
PARKER SMITH & FEEK
Project: Shemya Hangar 6
EXCELLENCE IN CONSTRUCTION
Specialty Contractor Transportation,
AWARDS
Marine, Heavy, Earthmoving
Vertical Over $15 million
UNIT COMPANY
DAMA Industrial LLC
Project: Koliganek K-12 School
Project: Village of Wainwright -
Emergency Tank Foundation Repair
Vertical Between $5 million
and $15 million
Sustainability in Construction
Cornerstone General Contractors Inc.
Davis Constructors & Engineers Inc.
Project: West High/Romig Middle
Project: Kings Landing at Ship Creek
School CTE Renovation and Addition
Phase 2
64
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
65

richie General c1ontract0i
1/3PG S 4/c
435240a

Contractors beware:
MICHAEL C. GERAGHTY
RYAN M. GILCHRIST
Oles Morrison Rinker & Baker
Alaska's Unfair Trade Practices
and Consumer Protection Act applies to you
W0hilecontractorsneedtobe Whiletheactidentifies57specifically under the UTPA is making false or
aware of a number of dif-
unlawful actions, the UTPA is intended
misleading statements or engaging in
ferent causes of action for
to be broad and encompasses acts or
conduct likely to create confusion or
which they could be exposed to legal
omissions beyond those specifically
misunderstanding among customers.3VI
liability, one claim typically not thought
enumerated.3IV
This means that statements made by
of as applying to contractors is Alaska's
Among the unlawful acts proscribed
contractors or owners must be accurate
Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer
by the UTPA, a few stand out. For
and sufficiently explained as to ensure
Protection Act ("UTPA").3I 0In Alaska,
example, misrepresenting the stan-
that the recipient is not mislead or
the UTPA can become a very powerful
dard, quality, type, origin or condition
confused.
weapon for a plaintiff suing under the
A key aspect of this is that even inno-
act, as it may lead to treble damages
cent misrepresentations are unlawful
and require the losing party to pay full
under the UTPA. The misrepresenting
reasonable attorneys' fees to the pre-
party's good faith is not a defense to
Contractors and
vailing party.
a UTPA violation because the acts
The reference to "consumer" in
enumerated in the UTPA are unfair or
owners may find
the act is a bit of a misnomer because
deceptive by definition.3VII
contractors may be subject to, and
Finally, disparaging the goods or
that their ignorance
liable under, the UTPA in many situa-
services of another through false or
tions. Contractors or owners engaging
of the act, and
misleading representations of fact is a
in questionable business tactics could
violation of the act.3VIII 0While this is not
in fact expose themselves to liability
its prohibited
a blanket prohibition on making state-
under the act. Prudent contractors
ments about competitors, be aware
and owners would be well advised to
practices, comes
that speaking ill of competitors could
consider the consequences of engaging
expose a contractor or owner to liability
with a very steep
in "hardball" tactics and other sharp
under the UTPA if those statements
practices that could expose them to
turn out to be false -- or even if they
price tag.
liability under the act.
are innocent misrepresentations.
While there are a number of excep-
The Alaska Unfair Trade
tions to the UTPA, for example, a trans-
Practices and Consumer
action involving the sale of real estate,
Protection Act � a primer
of goods or services is a violation of the
typical construction transactions and
The UTPA establishes that "[u]n-
act.3V 0This means if a contractor is going
interactions are likely within the act's
fair methods of competition and unfair
tomakerepresentationsabouttheprod-
control. Construction is a part of trade
or deceptive acts or practices in the
ucts he or she is using, those represen-
and commerce, and so the UTPA will
conduct of trade or commerce are
tations better be accurate. For example,
apply in most cases.
declared to be unlawful."3II 0The crux
if a contractor were to claim that some
of the act is that persons engaged in
product used in the construction of an
Treble damages
trade or commerce must avoid false,
improvement was locally sourced in
and attorneys' fees
confusing, misleading, fraudulent or
Alaska, obtaining that product from
One key reason contractors need
deceptive acts.3III 0There is no ques-
another location would be a violation
to be aware of UTPA claims is the
tion that the construction industry is
of the act, no matter what the quality.
potential for treble damages. The
clearly a part of trade and commerce.
Another broad category of wrongdoing
UTPA allows a private or class action
68
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

plaintiff that suffered an ascertainable
loss of money or property as a result
of a violation of the UTPA to recover
treble damages -- meaning three
times the actual damages incurred -- a
potentially ruinous award. Further, in
an action brought by a private party
under the UTPA, the prevailing side, if
successful, is entitled to full reasonable
attorneys'fees.1IX
UTPA claims may not be common
in the construction industry, but it is
one of the rare statutory schemes that
allows plaintiffs to treble the actual
damages that they can prove.
Conclusion
Construction
projects
involve
substantial capital that may be at risk
if everything does not go as planned.
When that happens the parties involved
may resort to provocative measures
and sharp practices to exert their will
or to thwart the ambitions of the other
side. If you're inclined to take measures
like that, or if you're inclined to respond
in kind -- you would be well advised
to think twice. UTPA claims may not be
common to the industry, but contrac-
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
69

tors and owners may find that their
consult a lawyer if you want professional
natural resources. Throughout his 36-year
ignorance of the act, and its prohib-
assurance that our information, and your
career he has been involved in numerous
ited practices, comes with a very steep
interpretation of it, is appropriate to your
complex cases, including class actions and
price tag.
particular situation.
anti-trust. He has appeared before the
Alaska Supreme Court in matters ranging
This column provides information
Michael C. Geraghty, partner in Oles
from sovereign immunity, insurance bad
about the law designed to help users safely
Morrison Rinker & Baker's Anchorage
faith and administrative law, to attorney-
cope with their own legal needs. But legal
office, joined the firm after serving for
client privilege,OSHA regulations,contract
information is not the same as legal advice
nearly three years as attorney general for
claims, shareholder disputes, products
liability and premises-landowner liability.
-- the application of law to an individual's
the state of Alaska (2012-2014). A lifelong
RyanM.GilchristisanassociateinOles
specific circumstances. Although we go to
Alaskan, Mike's practice focuses on areas
Morrison Rinker & Baker's Seattle office.
great lengths to make sure our information
and industries reflecting Alaska's growth
He joined Oles Morrison after graduating
is accurate and useful, we recommend you
and history, including construction and
from the University of Washington School
of Law in December 2015. During law
school, Ryan was a managing editor for the
Washington International Law Journal.
Ryan also served as a judicial extern for
the Hon. Kenneth L. Schubert of the King
County Superior Court and was a summer
associate at Oles Morrison in 2015.
I2AS 45.50.471-561.
II2AS 45.50.471(a).
III2AS 45.50.471(b).
IV2AS 45.50.471(b); Borgen v. A & M Motors, Inc.,
273 P.3d 575, 573 (2012).
V2AS 45.50.471(b)(4), (5)-(6).
VI2AS 45.50.471(b)(3), (11).
VII2Borgen v. A & M Motors, Inc., 273 P.3d 575, 591 (2012).
VIII2AS 45.50.471(b)(7).
IX2AS 45.50.537(a).
70
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

Reviewing the AGC Online Plans is part of my daily routine. For
our team the most valuable features include:
� User-friendly platform that is tablet and smartphone friendly.
Formatting adjusts to the screen smoothly supporting our
use of smartphones and tablets in daily business.
� Search capability: Simple, fast and thorough searches help
me nd what I'm looking for every time.
� The "add to bidders list" option gives us the opportunity to
Ryan Morse
be seen by subs for bids.
Kuchar
� Customer support team always there for us when we have a
Construction LLC
question and to keep the database current.
� Bidding list is immense. Because AGC is compiling opportunities from over 60
sources, we don't have to. AGC Online Plans is our new one-stop shop.
I appreciate that the AGC is consistently updating the user interface, making it more
ef cient and approachable for our entire staff.
Kumin has been a longtime supporter and member of
The AGC Online Plans continues to evolve its ef ciencies by
AGC, so we were excited to learn that AGC Online Plans
enhancing features based on member input. It's important
is included in our membership. The service provides
that users have input on the programming -- not the pro-
well-organized one-stop shopping via daily emails that
grammer -- so we may all fully bene t from the time savings
list new RFPs, addenda, updates and project awards.
as this is crucial in the bidding process. The multiple new
Once you've indicated interest in a particular project,
locations of the "add to bidders list" link allows contractors and
you can count on AGC Online Plans to send you up-to-
subcontractors to easily add themselves for higher visibility to
the-moment project update emails with new information
Kris Squires
the owner agencies and industry partners. Not only that, being
clearly identi ed in red, along with a list of interested
Roger Hickel
able to email all the bidders directly from the bidders list makes
bidders and a link to where the source docs can be
Contracting Inc.
communicating with each other on any given project much
CJ Quinn
found. This eliminates the need to continually check for
more simple and ef cient. If you haven't taken the AGC Online Plans for a spin, call
Kumin Associates
addenda on the RFP posting sites of agencies that don't
AGC at 907-561-5354, email agcplans@agcak.org or just give it a try. Thank you for
notify you automatically.
this opportunity to be a voice for AGC and the AGC Online Plans!
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
71

PROFESSIONAL JUDGES' CHOICE: CHILI
FIRST PLACE:
Cezar Plascencia, Sadie Gunter
SECOND PLACE:
and Trista Stockwell,
Steve Glatt,
Anchorage Sand & Gravel Co.
Keller Supply
PROFESSIONAL JUDGES' CHOICE: CORN BREAD
FIRST PLACE:
SECOND PLACE:
Jacque Cato, Davis
Mishalla Green,
Constructors & Engineers
Alaska USA Insurance Brokers
T1heannualchilicook-off--al- Trophy,winnersoftheprofessionally Theprofessionalchefs'choicesfor
ways a popular event to see
judged contests had their chili and corn
best corn bread were Jacque Cato of
how local chili recipes stack up
bread served at the First National Bank
Davis Constructors & Engineers, who
against each other -- turned up the
Alaska Luncheon during the AGC
took first place, and Mishalla Green of
heat this year by adding corn bread
annual conference and at Fletcher's
Alaska USA Insurance Brokers who
to the competition. In addition, there
restaurant throughout November.
took second.
was a beer tasting for the first time,
The winners for best chili --
Winning the People's Choice for
courtesy of Broken Tooth Brewery.
judged by the professional chefs --
corn bread was Mark Symonds of
Sampling the Fairweather IPA,
were Sadie Gunter, Trista Stockwell
SENCO Alaska for first place, and
Raspberry Wheat and Hefewiezen
and Cezar Plascencia of Anchorage
Jacque Cato, Davis Constructors &
was a perfect way to cool the tongue
Sand & Gravel Co. for first place; and
Engineers for second.
after tasting the dozen or so chilis.
Steve Glatt, Keller Supply for second
The professional judges were chef
The Eighth Annual AGC Chili and
place.
Naomi Everett, UAA Culinary; chef
Corn Bread Cook-Off & Beer Tasting
The People's Choice chili winners
Kellie Puff, CWPC, Culinary Arts
was hosted by the AGC Associates
were Steve Glatt of Keller Supply for
instructor, Anchorage School District,
Council at the Anchorage AGC office
first place; and Sadie Gunter, Trista
King Career Center; chef Van Hale,
in October.
Stockwell and Cezar Plascencia of
Marx Brothers & Van's Dive Bar; chef
Besides receiving the coveted AGC
Anchorage Sand & Gravel Co. for
LJ Hollie, Suite 100; and chef Eric
Chili or Corn Bread Cook-Off Skillet
second place.
Norat, Hotel Captain Cook.
PEOPLE'S CHOICE: CHILI
PEOPLE'S CHOICE: CORN BREAD
SECOND PLACE:
Sadie Gunter, Cezar Plascencia
SECOND PLACE:
FIRST PLACE:
and Trista Stockwell, Anchorage
FIRST PLACE:
Jacque Cato, Davis
Steve Glatt, Keller Supply
Sand & Gravel Co.
Mark Symonds, SENCO Alaska
Constructors & Engineers
72
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

2016 Winners of AGC's
Excellence in Construction Awards
Sustainability in Construction
Contractor: Davis Constructors & Engineers Inc.
Project: Kings Landing at Ship Creek Phase 2
Ship Creek is a favorite local spot near downtown Anchorage. With the city skyline as a backdrop, the area supports salmon runs and provides
habitat for many types of shorebirds. This Davis project enhanced access to the fishery and turned a previously grubby access point into an
appealing park with sitting areas. It also included a rain-fed pond that acts as a filter while treating runoff from the parking lot, a water bottle
filling and pet watering station to decrease the need for plastic one-time use containers and one of the nicest public restrooms in the state.
76
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

2016 Winners of
AGC's Excellence in
Construction Awards
AGC of Alaska congratulates all nine winners
of the 2016 Excellence in Construction Awards.
Five of the winning projects are featured in this
issue of The Alaska Contractor. The celebration
continues in the Spring 2017 issue when the
remaining four projects will be featured.
Award: Meeting the Challenge of a Job, Between
$5 million and $15 million Vertical Construction
Contractor: Cornerstone General Contractors Inc.
Project: West High School/Romig Middle School
CTE Renovation and Addition
Award: Meeting the Challenge of a Job, Under
$5 million Vertical Construction
Contractor: Ahtna Environmental Inc.
Project: Cordova Housing Siding
and Interior Renovations
Award: Meeting the Challenge of a Job,
Between $5 million and $15 million
Transportation, Marine, Heavy, Earthmoving
Contractor: Granite Construction Co.
Project: Seward Highway:
MP 99-100 Improvements
Award: Excellence in Construction for a
Specialty Contractor: Transportation, Marine,
Heavy, Earthmoving
Contractor: DAMA Industrial LLC
Project: Village of Wainwright -
Emergency Tank Foundation Repair
P1hotos
cour
Do you or your company have professional photos to share on
tes
y
recent AGC member construction projects in Alaska? Send us your
of0D
TAKING PRIDE 2photos, along with a brief description of the project
avis
and photo credits. Mail all photo submissions or drop them off at:
c1ons
AGC of Alaska
truct
8005 Schoon Street
ors
&
Anchorage, AK 99518-3045
e1ngineers
If you prefer email:
mailto:contractor@agcak.orgContractor@agcak.org
i1nc0.
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
77

2014
2016 5Winners of AGC's Excellence in Construction Awards
Excellence in Construction for a Specialty Contractor: Vertical
Construction
Contractor: Rain Proof Roofing
Project: Shemya Hangar 6
The project site lies 1,500 miles west of Anchorage on an Aleutian island called Shemya,
where Eareckson Air Station is located. The contract included removing 43,500 square feet
g
of roofing and rotted structural steel decking, and installing new substrate, vapor barrier,
insulation, sheathing, underlayment and Standing Seam Curved Metal Roof System. One
r4oofin
difficulty was coordinating with suppliers to procure and deliver material to the Seattle docks
roof
by May 2 for the annual barge that delivers material and equipment to the island. Beyond
P
the difficult logistics, the main challenge was the North Pacific weather. An average daily
r4ain
of
wind speed of 17 to 25 mph and rainy weather 60 percent of the time created challenges for
y
maintaining a work schedule, hoisting materials and working safely and productively on a roof
tes
that was 60 feet above the ground at its peak and working pitches of up to 70-degree inclines.
cour
Through the successful use of safety equipment, aerial lifts, Telehandler forklift and crane,
tos
plus a skilled crew and foreman, we completed this scope of work in 15 days.
P4ho
78
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

2014
2016 5Winners of AGC's Excellence in Construction Awards
uctiontr
c1ons
arine0M
again
t1urn
ofy
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P1ho
Meeting the Challenge of a Job, Over $15 million Transportation, Marine, Heavy, Earthmoving
Contractor: Turnagain Marine Construction
Project: Hoonah Berthing Facility
Turnagain Marine Construction was selected via a best-value proposal to design, manage and construct the Hoonah Berthing Facility in
Hoonah. This design-build project for Icy Strait Point and Huna Totem Corp. required Turnagain to provide a cruise ship berth to accommodate a
large array of vessels including the 1,067-foot Breakaway class. In partnership with Transpac Marinas, Moffatt & Nichol and the remainder of
the project team, Turnagain Marine Construction delivered this first-class facility on time and on budget. The facility construction included a
floating pontoon, eight dolphin structures, 700 feet of pile-supported, vehicle-rated trestle and transfer span, and associated appurtenances.
80
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

2014
2016 3Winners of AGC's Excellence in Construction Awards
Meeting the Challenge of a Job,
Over $15 million Vertical Construction
Contractor: UNIT COMPANY
Project: Koliganek K-12 School
K6en
This new K-12 school is in the remote village of Koliganek. The project included a new
g
P
r
ho
17,900-square-foot school, boiler building, water tank and supporting site work/utilities.
aha
tos
Other scopes included the demolition of the existing school. UNIT faced several transportation
M5P 6by
constraints due to record low water in the Nushagak River and renovation of an existing airport.
ho
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t
a
ogr
With innovative thinking, UNIT guaranteed that this project would be completed on time and within
yDe
a
budget. UNIT used 90 percent of local residents as part of its workforce and consistently
c
Phy arr
involved local village leaders to ensure the community's desires were met.
.6c oll
oM 5,
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
81

Member 3NEWS
Happenings on the Alaska construction scene
Davis Block & Concrete receives award
AGC of Alaska congratulates
has provided livelihoods on the
recognizes a leading small business,
Davis Block & Concrete for receiving
Kenai Peninsula, in Anchorage and
a local Alaska chamber of commerce
the Bill Bivin Small Business of the
throughout the state of Alaska. The
and an outstanding individual for
Year Award. Established in 1993,
Davis family was recognized as a
their accomplishments and contri-
the award recognizes businesses
model of the determination and
butions to the state's economy. The
that exemplify leadership, ethics
sound judgment that drive Alaska's
awards were presented at the 2016 Fall
and organization.
successful small companies.
Forum in October at The Cannery
Since 1975, Davis Block & Concrete
Each year the Alaska Chamber
Lodge in Kenai.
IN MEMORIAM
Harvey Dougherty remembered for lifetime achievement
Longtime Alaskan Harvey Dough-
sales for the business. After his first retirement, Harvey
erty, who died Sept. 12, 2016, will be
stated marketing for Domtar Gypsum wallboard and
remembered for his contributions to his
ABI Cement. He also created a market for the waste from
community, his church and the state. He
the Healy power plant, "fly ash," selling it to customers
was 86. Dougherty was a beloved member
throughout Alaska.
of the Associated General Contractors of
Dougherty was active in the Petroleum Club of
Alaska, receiving the Hard Hat Award in
Anchorage for more than 50 years, serving as club presi-
1997 for his lifetime of achievement to the
dent in 1981. He also was active in the Anchorage Down-
construction industry in Alaska.
town Rotary.
After serving in the U.S. Army, Dougherty moved to
His family describes Dougherty as, "Always putting
Alaska to start a 66-year adventure, marrying Jeanne and
others before himself." He was an avid fisherman and
starting a family. He worked for Kaiser Cement for more
"provider of great stock tips," and was known for his sense
than 35 years, starting in the warehouse running the sack
of humor and great attitude -- often saying that he flew
machine and quickly turning it into a lifelong career in
"at 20,000 feet."
Starting early, Mike Brady was strong supporter of industry
Lifelong Alaska Michael F. Brady
child he worked on Northwood Elementary during the
died Oct. 5, 2016. Born the eldest
summer and then attended the school in the fall.
of seven children in the Territory of
After graduating from Oregon State University, Brady
Alaska, Brady was instilled with a
returned to Anchorage and took charge of the compa-
strong work ethic that stayed with
ny's finances. In 1982, Mike, along with his brother,
him all his life. He felt fortunate
Tim, assumed control of the business, and over the next
to be raised in Alaska. Brady was a
30-plus years the brothers completed numerous construc-
strong supporter of the construction
tion projects throughout the state.
industry and served as a past director
Brady served as a management trustee for the Alaska
of AGC of Alaska and a vice president of AGC Safety Inc.
Laborer-Employers Trust from 1995 to 2016, as a board
Brady began his career at a very young age working
member of the Anchorage Economic Development Corp.
in the family business, Ken Brady Construction Co.
from 1992 to 2006 and as chairman from 1996 to 1997.
His father was a strong believer in child labor; while in
He also supported youth sports through the years. His
elementary school Brady spent summer days and occa-
passion for boats and spending time on the water as a
sional weekends on job sites. During the late 1950s and
child extended to adulthood with many weekends spent
early 1960s, the company built numerous elementary
in Prince William Sound with Lissa and friends aboard
schools in Anchorage, and Brady told friends that as a
the "49er" and later the "Aqua Vitae."
82
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
Winter 2017

Links to the digital versions
of the current and archive issues of
The Alaska Contractor magazine
are online at agcak.org under
"Publications & Archives" tab.
!
nline
so
Readu
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
83

SAVE THE DATE
DINNER &
CASINO NIGHT
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Registration:
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Feb. 17, 2017 6 to 9 p.m.
Fax: 907-562-6118
mailto:kimberly@agcak.orgkimberly@agcak.org for more information
WHY AGC?
Relationships. Networking. A Voice in the Industry.
These and many other benefits of AGC membership can be yours whether you are a general contractor,
a specialty contractor or you do related work for the construction industry.
Here is what our members say about the reasons to join one of Alaska's leading associations.
Gary Klebs
Jenith Flynn
Klebs Mechanical Inc.
Davis Constructors & Engineers Inc.
I believe anyone who is in
Joining committees and working with the AGC staff allow me to push
construction, or is associated
forward on industry trends and topics that are important to Davis
with construction, has a
Constructors. AGC of Alaska is our local voice to solve common industry
responsibility to advocate
challenges and to bring upcoming issues to the forefront. It allows
for the industry -- whether
contractors, subcontractors and vendors to work in collaboration to steer
it is politics, apprenticeship
local AGC programming. From local and national legislative issues, to
training, technical training
training, research and safety -- AGC allows me to have a voice.
or educating the population. AGC offers a way for
Scott Vierra
individuals through their member companies to
North Star Equipment Services
become involved and advance its member-driven
agenda. AGC also provides a great way to expand
We greatly appreciate AGC advocating for our industry, offering
individual knowledge through networking with
apprenticeship programs and educational classes regularly. The annual
others during the numerous AGC-sponsored events.
conference along with their Online Plans truly bring exceptional value to
Why AGC? ... Maybe it's as simple as this: Being a
its membership. Monthly networking functions, the membership roster
member will bring a smile to your face.
and the AGC app are phenomenal for our industry.
Kiel Beloy
Kiewit Building Group Inc.
Be a part of Alaska's third largest industry,
As an employee of one of the only remaining founding AGC of Alaska
paying the second highest wages,
charter members still working in the state, I am proud of our company's
with more than 21,000 in the workforce.
rich history with AGC. The training programs and networking opportun-
ities provide as much value today as they did when AGC of Alaska was
AGC: 650 members strong
formed in 1948. It's a great way to stay connected to the local industry.
Winter 2017
The Alaska CONTRACTOR
85